NSPCC referrals to external agencies in South East surge during pandemic
Referrals are made when reported concerns are considered serious enough for further investigation
NSPCC's helpline referrals to external agencies surged in the South East last year.
According to the charity, there were 7,147 made to agencies such as police or children's services in between April 2020 and March 2021.
That's an increase of 36% compared to the previous year, which NSPCC said echos concerns from its frontline teams that the pandemic has increased the risk of abuse and neglect.
The main reason for referrals in the South East of England was concerns relating to parental and adult health and behaviour, with 2,364 made to agencies in the region.
This includes worries about parental alcohol and substance misuse, domestic abuse and parental mental health.
Nationally, the charity recorded nearly 85,000 contacts during 2020-21, which is a rise of 23% compared to 2019-20.
Almost half of those lead to a referral to an external agency.
With the majority of children back at school, the charity is warning their hidden harms experienced during lockdowns may become visible.
It's calling on Governments at all levels to ensure their catch-up plans, as a result of coronavirus and its impact on education, go beyond the classroom.
NSPCC is urging Governments to focus on prevention and protecting children from neglect and abuse both online and offline, through early years support and ensuring services are available to help children recover from traumatic experiences.
Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC CEO, said:
"We’ve been hearing first-hand about the immense pressures families have faced during the pandemic and the heavy toll that has taken on children and young people. For some children, this has included experiencing abuse, bereavement and other harm.
"The record number of contacts to our helpline reinforces the need for Governments across the UK to put children at the heart of their recovery plans. These must go beyond education and address the harm some have experienced so the pandemic doesn’t leave a legacy of trauma for children.
"But this isn’t just a job for our Governments. Everyone has to play their part in keeping children safe. And that’s why we’re planning Childhood Day on 11 June when we’ll celebrate childhood and encourage people to get involved in making sure all children grow up happy and safe."
To report any concerns for about a child, contact NSPCC on 0808 800 5000, email help@nspcc.org.uk or visit their website.