Our purpose is to ensure consistent, inclusive and high quality services to meet the assessed needs of children and their families.

We want to support families to care for children safely and successfully and help children achieve their full potential.

Safeguarding Children

We take the lead in carrying out the duty of the Council 'to safeguard and promote the welfare of children who are in need'. Our work is undertaken in partnership with children and their families, other services within the Council and other agencies, particularly the police, the NHS and schools and education to safeguard and protect children and young people from abuse and neglect.

We do this by making enquires when abuse or neglect of a child is suspected. In the overwhelming majority of cases even where we find that a child has been abused or neglected, working with schools, health visitors and other professionals, we are able to help and support parents to care for their children safely.

It is only in a very small number of cases that children need to be looked after away from their families.

Concerned about a child's safety?

If you have any concerns about the welfare or safety of a child, please contact Social Care Direct (see 'Related Links'). They will deal with your concerns and can offer advice and support on what to do.

Social Care Direct is a free and confidential phone line, open 24 hours a day. Members of the public can make anonymous referrals.

You can find the Child Protection Procedures in 'Related links'.