Hotline for at-risk children launched in Edinburgh

A NEW hotline where people can report at-risk children has been launched in the Capital. Residents will now be able to call one number, whereas previously, callers in different parts of the city had to use local area office numbers.

The children and families social care d irect service also provides one point of contact for members of the public to request services or make general inquiries.

City leader for children’s social work services, Councillor Marilyne MacLaren, said: “Vulnerable children are everyone’s responsibility and we all need to look out for the signs – the neglect, the crying or the bruises.

“We can’t afford to not notice and our new dedicated telephone number will make it easier for the people of Edinburgh to play their part by making social care staff aware of concerns they may have. “The new single contact point will allow social work staff to deal with queries quicker and offer a more consistent service. It also means that members of the public can easily access the range of social work services.”

The new number, 0131-200 2327, operates Monday to Friday within office hours. Outwith these hours, callers will be directed to the emergency social work service.