Child Protection

Signs of Abuse

The following may help you decide whether a child's welfare is at risk of abuse, harm or neglect.

Signs which may suggest physical abuse

• any bruising to a baby - pre-walking stage
• multiple bruising to different parts of the body
• bruising of different colours indicating repeated injuries
• fingertip bruising to the chest, back, arms or legs
• burns of any shape or size
• an injury for which there is no adequate explanation

Signs of possible sexual abuse

• something a child has told you
• something a child has told someone else
• a child who shows worrying sexualised behaviour in their play or with other children
• a child who seems to have inappropriate sexual knowledge for their age
• a child who may be visiting or being looked after by a known or suspected sexual offender

Signs which may suggest emotional harm

The following signs may be present in children whose parents are over-critical and emotionally distant, or who are unable to meet their child's emotional needs:

• children whose behaviour is excessive. For example, excessive bedwetting, overeating, rocking, headbanging.
• children who self harm. For example, they may cut or scratch themselves or overdose.
• children who attempt suicide
• children who persistently run away from home
• children who show high levels of anxiety, unhappiness or withdrawal
• children who usually seek out or avoid affection.

Signs which may suggest neglect

• squalid, unhygienic or dangerous home conditions
• parents who fail to attend to their children's health or development needs
• children who appear persistently undersized or underweight
• children who continually appear tired or lacking in energy
• children who suffer frequent injuries due to lack of supervision.

Positive ways of protecting children

What do children need?

• to feel safe and secure
• health and happiness
• appropriate affection
• lots of smiles
• praise and encouragement
• to be able to talk to someone
• to be listened to
• new experiences
• respect for their feelings
• rewards and treats

What to do if you are worried

If you are unsure that a child may be suffering but are worried, or if you are concerned that a child has suffered harm, neglect or abuse, please use the contact details at the top of the page.

In an emergency outside normal office hours, please contact the police.

For further information please visit Hertfordshire County Council's website.