Safeguarding and social care for children

Child protection, social work, children in care and looked-after children, becoming a social care provider.

Services

  • The law does not say an age when you can leave a child on their own, but it's an offence to leave a child alone if it puts them at risk

  • If you think a child or young person is at risk or being abused or neglected, contact the children’s social care team at their local council.

  • Tell the local authority if you're worried that a child is being neglected or abused - call 999 if they’re in immediate danger

  • You may need a child performance licence for any child taking part in a public performance, sporting event or modelling assignment

  • What happens when a child is taken into care - who is responsible for what, care proceedings, care orders, going to court and the role of Cafcass

Guidance and regulation

News and communications

Research and statistics

Policy papers and consultations

Transparency and freedom of information releases