Child protection

All children have a right to be protected from harm, especially from other people and to grow up in a caring and safe environment.

All parents experience difficulties at times and can be helped by other family members or close friends.  However, there may be times when a child can be at risk of significant harm and professional support needs to be provided.

All adults have a responsibility to protect children

If you have any concerns or worries about any child or young person you should do something about it and speak to someone. This could be a teacher, health visitor, doctor, social worker or a police officer - anyone who you think may be able to help you. 

You can get advice or report a concern by contacting your local Integrated Children's Services office. In an emergency out of office hours, please call the Emergency Duty Team on 01896 752111.

If you are being harmed or you know about an adult who is being harmed, see the Adult support and protection section.

Child Protection Committee

The Scottish Borders Child Protection Committee is made up of a high-level group of representatives from the key agencies in the Borders with a responsibility for the protection of children and young people. The Committee also provides training for individuals and community groups. More information is available on their website.

Child protection procedures and guidance

• The Child Protection Committee have produced an online version of their child protection procedures. If you volunteer for a youth group or children's club such as scouts, sports groups or church groups or regularly work with parents of children under 16, you should be aware of these procedures.
• The Scottish Government provide National Child Protection Guidance (2010) which sets out how all services working with children and/or their families should work together to ensure the protection and well-being of children in Scotland.