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Child protection is about protecting children from abuse. Abuse can be physical, emotional or sexual, or arise from neglect when the child is not given the care needed to grow and develop. Even though a person might not intend to deliberately harm a child, action must be taken to protect the child from the consequences of abuse.
In Oldham, as in every other local authority in England and Wales, there is an Local Safeguarding Children Board, made up of representatives from Children’s Services, Health, the Police, Positive Steps Oldham, Youth Offending Services and Probation Services and voluntary groups such as the NSPCC. The Committee works to raise awareness, prevent child abuse, and protect children who have been abused from further harm.
Children’s Social Care (Social Services) has a lead role in this organisation and has a legal duty to investigate if a child is thought to be suffering abuse. Social Care also maintains a list of children who are subject to a child protection plan.
For more information about child protection and for who to contact if you suspect a child is being abused please see our detailed fact sheet Child Protection (PDF).
If you are a child or young person there is a information on the Oldham Local Safeguarding Website and we have written two fact sheets especially for you:
I need help (PDF) this is also available in EASYREAD1 format.
I am being abused (PDF)this is also available in EASYREAD format.
Access Oldham Local Safeguarding Children Board policies and procedures which are available on the website
Please note: The documents should be read in conjunction with the Department for Education and Skills booklet 'What To Do If You Are Worried A Child Is Being Abused'.
Access the Safe Parenting Handbook and find further information for parents.