All of Us together can work to fight child neglect - Carla Malseed

Despite the cold and short days, this is usually a time of year when people feel they can look forward to new things. However, this year, beginning in a period of lockdown, many will be finding it hard to feel positive or hopeful.

The NSPCC helpline is open seven days a week

And for those who have suffered the greatest impact of the pandemic, through losing jobs, suffering illness and bereavement, feeling trapped in strained or abusive relationships and being isolated, it will be particularly difficult.

But, despite the lockdown measures in place, there is still support out there, and it is so important that parents realise this and know where to turn before they reach crisis point.

Getting support will help their own wellbeing as well as their child’s.

Carla Malseed

A year ago NSPCC Scotland joined with Edinburgh Child Protection Committee to launch the All of Us campaign, which aims to prevent child neglect by getting families the help and support they need at an early stage.

During the pandemic we have worked with organisations in Edinburgh to let families know what support is still out there. Our partnerships web page includes information about support for parents with financial difficulties, those finding it hard to get enough food and those experiencing mental health issues.

Looking after a child can be challenging for all parents at times but even more so in the current situation, with schools closed and little respite from the constant demands of a family. Many parents are also having to juggle work commitments with caring for children and trying to home-school.

We want anyone who is struggling with parenting to know they can reach out for support. Our NSPCC helpline is open seven days a week and our trained professionals are there to offer confidential advice and support for parents, as well as anyone who is concerned about a child’s welfare.

As this pandemic has changed our communities, it is more important than ever to check in with families and that people reach out so support can be given and children are protected.

We have produced a webinar for parents and the wider community about the early signs of child neglect and how to help families who are struggling. It looks at the role everyone can play in preventing neglect and helping to raise happy healthy children. The free webinars can be watched until February 28.

The NSPCC also offers a free online training course for workers who visit people’s homes. The ‘It’s Your Call’ course helps workers recognise the signs of possible child abuse and neglect and who to contact about concerns.

For more information about the All of Us campaign visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/allofus. For parenting advice and support visit NSPCC helpline or call 0808 800 5000. People can also contact Social Care Direct on 0131 200 2324.

Carla Malseed, NSPCC Scotland campaigns manager, on behalf of the All of Us campaign run with Edinburgh Child Protection Committee