Safeguarding children and adults

Protecting vulnerable children and adults from abuse

Abuse is behaviour that can lead to harm or distress; for example hitting, pushing, bullying, stealing, neglect, or sexual activity without consent. It can happen to men, women and children, and in many different places. It can be carried out by many different people, but it's often someone known and trusted.

Abuse is wrong and should not happen.

Remember

The welfare of children, young people and adults at risk of abuse and neglect is the primary concern. All children, young people and adults at risk of abuse and neglect have the right to protection from abuse or exploitation. It is the responsibility of child protection agencies to determine whether or not a child has been abused. It is our responsibility to report any concerns we have to the appropriate authority.

Staffordshire Safeguarding Children Board brings together representatives of each of the main agencies and professionals responsible for promoting the welfare and safety of children and young people in Staffordshire. Visit the Staffordshire Safeguarding children boards website for more info. (opens new window)

Staffordshire Safeguarding Adults Board brings together representatives of key agencies to make sure that local safeguarding arrangements help and protect adults throughout Staffordshire. View more info on the Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Safeguarding adults website.

If you feel that anyone, a child or an adult is at immediate risk of harm call 999

For allegations involving children and young people

Phone: 0800 131 3126 (free from a land line)
Fax: 01785 854223
Text: 07773 792016
Online: Visit Staffordshire County Council's Children & Family Services
Report: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/reportconcern
Minicom: 01785 277309
Post: First Response Team, Wedgwood Building, Tipping Street Stafford, ST16 2DH 

A trained member of staff will be available to help you between 8.30am - 5.00pm, Monday - Thursday and 8.30am - 4.30pm Fridays (excluding Bank Holidays). To report a concern outside of these hours, contact the Emergency Duty Service, details of which are below.

For allegations involving adults at risk of abuse and neglect

Phone: 0345 604 2719
Fax: 01785 276026
Email: VAStaffordshire@staffordshire.gov.uk

A trained member of staff will be available to help you between 8.30am - 5.00pm, Monday - Thursday (excluding Bank Holidays) and 8.30am - 4.30pm on Friday.

To report a concern outside of these hours, please contact the Emergency Duty Service, details of which are below.

Emergency Duty Service - reporting abuse out of hours 

If you have a concern about the safety of a child or adults at risk of abuse and neglect and need to report it overnight, over a weekend or on a Bank Holiday, contact the Emergency Duty Service:

Phone: 0345 604 2886.
Fax: 01785 277321
Text: 07773 792016