This page provides simple guidance about children who may need protection from harm.
In an emergency, call the police
If a child is in immediate danger, please call 101 or 999.
Report concerns about a child
If you're concerned that a child has suffered harm, neglect or abuse, please report it to us:
- Monday to Friday, 8.30am-4.45pm: call 0300 303 0440
- Any other time: call 0300 303 8875
Report a child at risk as a professional
If you're a professional and you’re concerned about a child, you need to refer to us using the Children's Services Portal.
Report an adult who works with children
If you have concerns about an adult who works with children and believe they may have caused or could cause harm, please report this to us.
Our Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) is responsible for coordinating a response to any concerns you report to us.
Concerns you should report
You should contact us if you feel that:
- A child needs protection – if you feel that a child is suffering harm, neglect or abuse, we can investigate and act to protect the child.
- A family is under stress – we can offer support and advice and help families access support from other services.
- A child is seriously ill or disabled – we can arrange an assessment of the child's and family's needs and provide support.
Signs of abuse
There are several ways to identify if a child is suffering from abuse, neglect or may be in harm's way.
Get support for a child at risk
Our Family Hubs can provide support and advice if you know a child at risk.
Rochdale Borough Safeguarding Children Partnership
Rochdale Borough Safeguarding Children Partnership is the key statutory mechanism for agreeing how organisations in Rochdale will co-operate to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in Rochdale.