Safeguarding and child protection

Preventing and reporting abuse. Homeless children, abduction, serious case reviews, data collection.

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

  • You might be able to stop someone getting a passport by applying for a court order - parental child abduction, vulnerable adults

Guidance and regulation

News and communications

Research and statistics

Policy papers and consultations

Transparency and freedom of information releases