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Spurgeons and Dad.Info doesn’t investigate reports of abuse or neglect. But below, you can find advice on who to contact if you have concerns about a child or young person.
Reporting a concern
It can be difficult to know what to do if you think a child is at risk. It’s important to remember that if you’ve spotted things that don’t seem right, others will have too. Speaking up can make sure that child gets help as soon as possible.
The sooner you contact your local children’s social care duty team, the quicker they can act. They’re available 24 hours a day, and can make an anonymous report if that feels safer. If a child is in immediate danger, please call the police straight away by dialling 999.
Report child abuse or neglect to your local council
Use these links to get in touch with your local council:
hi, would really like some advice 🙂
I have full parental responsibility for my son and see him regularly, recently I've been contacted by social services who advised me my son is under a child protection order and are concerned about his safety. My ex has a history of Drug and alcohol abuse and this was their main concern. Today I had a phone call from her sister who is also very worried she recently witnessed her picking my son up from school high on drugs and alcohol, she apparently fell over with my son in her care cutting her head and bruising her arm badly.
I went to see social services today who advised me if I'm worried for his safety I should keep him on the next visit.
Is this a good idea? I feel it's my duty to protect my son but have no idea of what will happen once I take this step.
Hi there
Sorry for the delay in replying to you, you must be very worried.
If the SS are concerned for your sons safety and they have more or less told you not to return him, then I would advise you keep hold of him and apply to the court for an urgent prohibited Steps Order to prevent his removal. You don't need a solicitor to do this. You will need form C100 and it will cost £215 to submit the form. If you are on benefits or a low income you may be entitled to an exemption from the fee and you would need form EX160a to apply for that. It's best to take the forms to the family court in person, you can then explain to them what has happened and the fact that your child is at serious risk and you have the support of Social Services and that why you need an urgent hearing. You really have to push it but in the circumstances they should see that it is an urgent matter.
The SS are always loathe to tell someone outright to keep a child they believe is at risk, so they "advise". Once you go to court and the judge hears your case and the fact that your child is on a CPO, he will order reports from SS and grant you interim residency...at least I'm pretty sure that would be the case.
Good luck