Coronavirus: Communities urged to look out for vulnerable children

A plea has been made to Fifers to look out for children who may be at risk during the coronavirus lockdown.

Child Protection Committees Scotland, a national grouping of child protection professionals, supports all efforts by the Scottish Government, local authorities and the third sector to keep children safe from harm during the enforced break in normal routine.

Alan Small, independent chairman of Fife Child Protection Committee, recognises the impact a significant change in day-to-day life may have on vulnerable children in homes across the Kingdom.

He said: “Schools and nurseries play a central role in contributing to the safety of all local children, especially those who may be at risk of abuse and neglect.

“When children are not at school we don’t have the same ability to monitor their well being on a daily basis.

“Our teams within children’s services are working closely with those in education and are making every effort possible to support those children and families who may need it during these demanding times.”

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Fife Child Protection Committee also stressed the need for the public to join efforts to protect potentially vulnerable children during the coronavirus outbreak and urged everyone to play a part in helping to keep them safe.

Mr Small continued: “The onus of care has now shifted more to local communities, and we’re asking everyone to keep their eyes and ears open.

“Local people always provide a significant protective factor for children and that’s even more important at a time when families may be under significant additional stress. If you’re at all worried about a child’s welfare, it’s much better to say something than do nothing.

"We urge everyone to take action if they’re concerned about a child or children.

If you’re worried, call your social work contact centre on 03451 551503 or call the police on 101. If you think a child might be in immediate danger you should contact the police right away by dialling 999.