Reporting a Child Protection Concern
We all want our communities to be places where children and young people are safe, enjoy good health and have access to a wide range of positive experiences and opportunities but unfortunately not all children are protected or well cared for.
Child protection is everyone’s responsibility.
If you’re worried about a child — speak up, take action, and help keep them safe.
If a Child Is in Immediate Danger
Call 999 and ask for the police.
Do not delay if a child is at immediate risk of significant harm.
Worried About a Child or Young Person?
Everyone has a responsibility to act if they are concerned that a child may be at risk of harm, neglect or abuse.
You can report a concern whether you are:
- A teacher, early years worker, or other professional
- A neighbour, family member or friend
- A volunteer, youth worker, or member of the public
- No concern is too small — what you share could be part of a bigger picture.
Who to Contact
Please contact the local Social Work team based on where the child lives:
Falkirk
Phone (Office hours): 01324 503650
Stirling
Phone (Office hours): 01786 471177
Clackmannanshire
Phone (Office hours): 01259 225000
Emergency duty team can be contacted outwith office hours (after 5.00pm and at weekends and public holidays) – 01786 470500 – this service is Forth Valley wide
Police Scotland
Call 101 (non-emergency) or 999 in an emergency.
Professionals: Always discuss your concern with your designated Child Protection or safeguarding lead in your service.
A notification concern should always be completed following the telephone call.
When you report a concern, try to include:
- The child’s name, age, and address (if known)
- Names of parents/carers
- What you have seen, heard, or been told
- Any injuries, behaviours, or patterns that worry you
- Dates, times and places
- Any direct quotes from the child
- Who else you’ve told (e.g. school staff, police)
- Whether the child is currently safe or in danger
What Happens Next?
After a referral is made:
- The child’s details are checked with existing records
- Social Work may contact you or others for more information
- If needed, a multi-agency Initial Referral Discussion (IRD) takes place
- Decisions are made about support, further assessment or child protection action
- You may not always be informed of the outcome — but your information will be taken seriously.
Professionals must share information in line with the National Child Protection Guidance and local Forth Valley Child Protection Procedures.
Why It’s Important to Report?
Even small concerns can build a bigger picture.
Reporting early may prevent harm and help families get support.
You don’t need to be certain — just concerned.
Trust your instincts. If you’re worried about a child, it’s right to share that concern.
Child Protection Scotland Keeping Kids Safe posters
Child Protection Scotland Keeping Kids Safe poster 1
Child Protection Scotland Keeping Kids Safe poster 2
