Call 999 if the child is in real danger now.
If you're worried about a child or young person or think they're being abused, even if you're unsure, call 01752 668000 or email gateway@plymouth.gov.uk or outside of normal working hours call Plymouth Out of Hours Service on 01752 346984.
The Gateway service is made up of multi-agency professionals who can give you advice, information and support. You can also contact the NSPCC if you want to talk to someone about your concerns and get advice.
What to report
Child abuse takes many forms including physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and neglect. Find out more about child abuse and how to spot the signs.
When you get in touch with us we'll ask you some questions such as:
- the child's name and date of birth
- the address and contact details for the child's parent or carer
- why you think the child is at risk or is being abused
What happens once it's been reported
All agencies involved with the child, such as the police or the child's school, will work out together what support is needed to keep them safe.
Sometimes there's nothing to worry about and we don't need to do anything. Sometimes we need to put together a plan to make sure the child is kept safe.
Everyone involved will work hard with the family to keep the child at home, but if it's not safe for them to stay with their family then in some cases a child can be taken in to care to keep them safe.
Referrals by professionals
Call 999 if the child is in real danger now.
If you're a professional with an urgent child protection concern, please make an immediate referral by calling the Multi-Agency Hub on 01752 305200 (or 01752 346984 out of hours) or email multiagencyhub@plymouth.gov.uk.
You'll be asked to follow up your call by submitting an inter-agency referral form which you can download from the Plymouth Safeguarding Children Board website.
Useful external links
- Find social care information, advice and support services
- Looked after children
- Plymouth Safeguarding Children Board
Main page source: Plymouth City Council