The Child Protection Coordinator at Methilhill Primary School is Mrs Simpson (Headteacher).
Our Depute Child Protection Coordinators are Ms McGill and Mrs Rolland (Depute Headteachers).
If you see behaviour that is of concern, or if a child or young person tells you something worrying, you need to do something about it and speak to someone.
You can speak to a teacher, health visitor, social worker or police officer. However, if you think a child has been harmed, telephone the Social Work Contact Centre on 03451 55 15 03, from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Out-with these hours, please call them on 03451 55 00 99. You can call the police on telephone number 101, 24/7. If you consider a child or young person to be in immediate danger, do not wait, call the Police on 999.
What to say
Explain exactly what you have seen, heard or been told and what it was that concerned you. If you can, keep a note of dates, injuries and the exact words used. These will help you give as much information as you can about the child or young person and their family/carer. Let the person know if there are other things they should be aware of, for example, immediate risks for the child or any other child.
Will you need to give your name?
You can ask to remain anonymous but any information about you will be treated with care. Any details, including your name, will not be revealed unless the child’s safety requires it. Even if you do not give your name, enquiries can still be made into the child’s care and welfare. Withholding your name may make it more difficult for those looking into these concerns.
What will happen to the child or young person and their family?
When you contact a professional about your concern, unless the child is in immediate danger, they will make some initial enquiries before taking action. They will check whether the child is known to them and what information is held. All information will be treated seriously and acted upon as appropriate. This may lead to immediate action or a more planned response.
Should you mind your own business?
Many people do not tell because they fear that:
- the child will be at further risk of harm
- that nothing will be done
- the child would be taken away
- the family may find out who reported them
- telling may ruin family relationships.
In reality, it is best for everyone that action is taken early to identify any abuse before it gets worse. Long-term abuse is much more likely to cause problems for a child as they get older. Even if you think an incident is just a one off, other professional agencies may already have concerns about the child. In Scotland it is everyone’s job to make sure children are OK.
