The First Steps.

So what do you do if you think your child has been, or is being abused ?

The first thing to do is get professional help before you do anything else. Do not confront the abuser as this may place your child in further danger, or give the abuser the chance to silence or threaten your child. So seek help first.

Call the N.S.P.C.C. Child Protection Helpline on 0800 800 500
        Their trained councilors will help you, and if necessary, contact the relevant       
        authorities  for you.

Call your local Police service or Social Services Department.

Call Childline on 0800 1111
          Mainly for children to report  or seek advice on abuse but useful for parents      
          also.

You may also want to talk through your feelings of anger, betrayal, disbelief or shock with a trusted relative or friend but what ever you do, your first priority must be to protect your child and seek professional help.

It is vital that the abuse stops no matter how painful it is to you, your partner and your family. the abuser is unlikely to stop unless you take steps to protect your child. Your child may also require medical attention or councelling.

(c) Copyright 2002 Margaret Cooper
Webmaster, Dave Miles, 33, Lowell place, Bramley, Leeds, Yorkshire, England.

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