Safeguarding children and young people

Children and young people are the most vulnerable members of society. Protecting them from becoming the victims of abuse is everyone's responsibility.

To report a child or young person at risk call 0121 788 4300 (Monday to Thursday 8.45am - 5.20pm, Friday 8.45am - 4.30pm).

If you are calling out of working hours (Evenings, weekends or bank holidays) please call 0121 605 6060.

In an emergency always call 999.

If you work with children or young people

If you work with children or young people please use our referral form.

Multi agency referral form

What is child abuse?

Abuse can happen to a child of any age and social background, at home or in the community. It happens when someone hurts a child directly - physically, emotionally or sexually - or indirectly, through neglect or failing to prevent harm.

Usually the abuser is someone known to the child - maybe an adult, sometimes another child, and sometimes more than one person. Abuse can be stopped and even prevented, but this can only happen if someone knows about it.

How to get help

If you are worried about the safety or welfare of a child, tell someone you trust, as soon as you can. You can talk to us, or speak in confidence to a doctor or nurse, social worker, head teacher, police or the NSPCC. Children and young people can ring ChildLine.

You can remain anonymous if you wish. It’s very important that you take action straight away - the sooner you get help, the sooner the abuse will stop.

  • speak to us: 0121 788 4300 (outside office hours in an emergency: 0121 605 6060)
  • Police: 101 (or 999 in an emergency)
  • NSPCC: child protection helpline: 0808 800 5000
  • ChildLine: 0800 1111