Twelve Top Tips to protect children

CHILDREN 1ST has responded to the latest report on the Savile abuse allegations, calling on everyone in Scotland to do what they can to protect children.

The charity, which has 129 years’ experience of supporting children who have been abused in Scotland, has launched Twelve Top Tips which everyone can follow to help keep children safe.

Anne Houston, Chief Executive of CHILDREN 1ST commented: “As important as it is that people allegedly abused by Jimmy Savile and other celebrities come forward we should not forget that children are more likely to be abused sexually by someone they know – a family member or friend. Right now, there are children in communities and homes in Scotland suffering sexual abuse, too afraid to speak out, scared that no one will listen or take them seriously.

“That is why today we are launching our Twelve Top Tips guide to protecting children as part of our See. Hear. Speak. Act on sexual abuse campaign. We believe it’s everybody’s responsibility to protect children. Following these simple tips can give people the information they need to keep children they know safe.”

If anyone is concerned about a child, they can call ParentLine Scotland on 08000 28 22 33 – the helpline is open seven days a week – for advice and support on what to do. If a child is at immediate risk, call takers will ensure that social work or police are contacted.

Anne added: “We know it is difficult to talk about abuse – but we would reassure people that there are supportive organisations like ParentLine Scotland and people they can contact. It is crucial that people who have suffered abuse get access to the right support at the right time to help them fully recover from their experiences.

“However, there is a shortage of abuse and trauma recovery services across the UK, including Scotland. Of all the services CHILDREN 1ST provides the waiting list for our eight abuse and trauma services is one of the longest.

Twelve Top Tips can be downloaded here.
http://www.children1st.org.uk/shop/product/193/7/twelve-top-tips