With #Stayathome continuing, we are all becoming increasingly concerned about the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk who have lost their normal support networks including those provided by schools, professional carers, youth workers and health staff:
- The National Crime Agency (NCA) has identified a priority threat of 300,000 paedophiles trying to prey upon children and young people;
- Childline has had an unprecedented rise in calls,
- Refuge's National Domestic Abuse Helpline's has seen a 125% increase in calls and 150% visits on their website
and
- National Trading Standards has warned of a surge of coronavirus related scams, face to face, online and by phone.
It is important to remember that both Social Care Services and the Police continue to be available at all times, and any safeguarding concern should be referred in the usual way.
The impact of Covid-19, social isolation and a rise in hateful extremism online is creating a ‘perfect storm’ which is making more young people vulnerable to radicalisation and other forms of grooming.
But parents, friends and families can now get specialist support to stop their loved ones being drawn into harmful activities or groups, with the launch of ACT Early - a new dedicated safeguarding website (www.actearly.uk) and advice line from the specialists at Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP).
Victims of domestic abuse:
For anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know, the charity Hestia has launched its free resource and information Bright Sky app and is working with Boots pharmacies to provide safe spaces at consultation rooms where victims can contact specialist domestic abuse services for support and advice.
The police have a Silent Solution system which enables a 999 mobile caller (who is too scared to make a noise, or speak) to press 55, cough or tap the handset when prompted – to inform police they are in a genuine emergency.
The government's COVID-19 guidance for:
Supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing
Support for victims of domestic abuse
and the NHS's
Recommended mental health help lines
The coronavirus 'Grab and Go' form and Guidance Notes have been designed by family carers and NHS England, with support from organisations like Mencap.
The Social Care Institute for Excellence' (SCie)'s
Domestic violence and abuse: Safeguarding during the COVID-19 crisis
Safeguarding adults during the COVID-19 crisis
Safeguarding children and families during the COVID-19 crisis
Supporting autistic people and people with learning disabilities
Supporting people who are isolated or vulnerable
Also visit your local Safeguarding Board, Partnership (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or Protection Committee (Scotland) for specific guidance in your own area
