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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....sorry bit I'm in desperate need of some help or advice as I'm just struggling to cope....
I have 2 kids ...a lovely 8 year old girl who is the best thing ever and a 6 year old autistic boy...i love my son dearly but he dictates every single moment of my life.
He basically doesn't speak and can't be left on his own as there is no telling what he will do. He has completely changed the person who I am and however hard I try I simply can't cope...
On top of this I argue with my wife all the time....the truth is I don't know if I love her or if I ever have....we bicker...she thinks I don't support her and I think that all she does is tell me what to do....
Now to make matters worse her dad is seriously ill...my son now poos in his room every night and I am the one that ends up clearing it up...it is soul destroying....
I just don't know what is going on with my life any more....i know I have some kind of depression or anxiety issues.....this just isn't the life I want to lead....
Hey Steve
Welcome to the forum. I'm sorry to hear that you're having such a tough time. Life can be difficult at the best of times, but factor in a child with extra needs and relationship troubles, that makes it extra hard.
Have you considered going to see your GP to talk about things? It might be worth seeking some counselling (a GP can arrange that too) which you could do on your own if you are feeling low etc. The other option is to consider going to Relate with your wife to see if you can both talk to each other about what is going on, try to make some sense of it all? It must be difficult for all of you right now.
Keep posting and we will do what we can to support you.
Hello Steve28,
Is short stay temporary respite care available on a regular basis for your Son? I know it is for the elderly which gives carers a much needed break but I'm not familiar with what is available for children and their carers.
Added to the above, does your Son go to a specialist school either as a daily attendee or boarder?
Can you get financial help for carers to come into your home to relieve both you and your wife?
It is important that you speak with your G.P. to tell him how you are feeling and explore what options are available to you and your wife as the situation is understandably taking it's toll on you both.