Child abuse happens when a child is harmed or not cared for properly. It can occur in various situations and applies to anyone under 18. For vulnerable individuals, this extends to age 25.
If you suspect a child or young person is being abused, or you are concerned about their welfare:
All reports are handled confidentially and you can remain anonymous. Abuse and exploitation can take many forms, often interlinking. Both boys and girls can be affected, regardless of background or circumstances.
Types of child abuse
CCE occurs when children are coerced, persuaded, or trafficked into engaging in illegal activities, often for gangs. This includes:
drug running or selling
committing crimes under threats of violence or intimidation
Signs of CCE include children frequently missing from home, associating with older individuals, or being found in unfamiliar locations.
Emotional abuse involves ongoing mistreatment that negatively impacts a child’s mental health and development. This can include:
ignoring the child or making them feel invisible and unimportant
bullying, mocking, or belittling the child, often in public or at home
blaming the child for family issues or problems beyond their control
using derogatory names like 'useless' or 'worthless', damaging self-esteem
preventing the child from expressing themselves or making fun of their words
The effects of emotional abuse may not always be visible but can lead to severe mental health issues, including anxiety, depression and low self-worth.
FGM is the non-medical removal of external female genitalia. It is illegal in the UK and is a severe form of abuse. Key details include:
FGM causes long-term physical harm, emotional trauma and severe health complications
girls may be taken abroad for FGM, often under the guise of a family visit
FGM is frequently linked to cultural, religious, or social practices, but it remains a form of child abuse
Forced marriage may also occur alongside FGM, further endangering the child’s welfare.
Grooming happens when someone builds a relationship with a child to exploit them for sexual, criminal, or trafficking purposes. This can happen:
online through social media or messaging apps
in person, often by someone the child knows, such as a family friend or neighbour
over time, gradually gaining the child’s trust before exploitation begins
Children may not realise they are being groomed, making it essential for parents and carers to stay alert to warning signs, such as secrecy about relationships or sudden changes in behaviour.
Neglect is the failure to meet a child’s basic needs over time. It is the most common form of child abuse and includes:
lack of adequate food, water, clothing, or shelter
ignoring medical, dental, or mental health needs
leaving the child unsupervised or in unsafe environments
failing to provide emotional support or developmental stimulation
Neglected children may appear malnourished, unclean, or improperly dressed for the weather. They might also struggle with developmental milestones.
Online abuse occurs through social media, gaming platforms, blogs, or mobile phones. It can include:
grooming or building trust to exploit the child
requesting explicit images or videos, often with threats to share them
emotional abuse or cyberbullying, including persistent harassment
exploiting the child’s personal information for malicious purposes
Parents and carers should monitor children’s online activities and have open conversations about online safety.
Physical abuse occurs when a child is intentionally harmed through physical actions. It can take many forms, including:
hitting, punching, slapping, or kicking
shaking or throwing the child
suffocating, strangling, or poisoning
burning or scalding with hot liquids or objects
throwing objects at the child, causing injury
fabricating or inducing illness, where parents or carers pretend the child is unwell, subjecting them to unnecessary medical treatments that cause harm
Children who experience physical abuse may have visible injuries, frequent hospital visits, or explanations for injuries that do not add up.
Child trafficking involves transporting children for exploitation, including:
sexual exploitation or forced labour
domestic servitude, criminal activities, or forced marriage
Children may be trafficked across countries, towns, or even within the same area. They often face significant harm, isolation and fear of seeking help.
Further information
If you suspect child abuse or exploitation, please act by:
You do not need to provide your name when reporting. All information will be treated confidentially and with care. Reporting can save a child from harm and ensure they receive the help they need.