Safeguarding children

Everybody has the right to be safe, no matter who they are or what their circumstances are. In the current difficult situation, there may be a need to protect some children, young people and vulnerable adults who may be at risk of abuse or neglect.

We are all responsible for the safety of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Members of the public

If you are concerned about the welfare or safety of a child or young person, please contact us:

• 01824 712200: Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday 9am to 4.30pm
• 0345 053 3116: evenings and weekends

You can also send an email to cfsgateway@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Calls to 0345 053 3116 will cost you 2 pence per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

North Wales Safeguarding Board video (external website)

Everybody has the right to be safe, no matter who they are or what their circumstances are.

Safeguarding is about protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults from abuse or neglect. We are all responsible for the safety of the most vulnerable members of our society.

What is abuse?

• Abuse is any action that harms another person, and it can take many forms.
• Physical abuse (e.g. hitting, slapping, pushing, physically restraining)
• Emotional abuse (e.g. bullying, taunting, threatening or humiliating someone)
• Verbal abuse (e.g. shouting or swearing)
• Financial abuse (e.g. money or belongings being taken under pressure or without consent)
• Sexual abuse (e.g. unwanted touching, kissing or sexual intercourse)
• Neglect (e.g. not being properly cared for, mismanaging medication, being denied privacy, choice or social contact)
• Discrimination (e.g. suffering abuse or neglect on the grounds of religion, culture, gender, sexuality or disability)

We have a statutory duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, in line with the Children's Act 2004.

The key outcomes for improving the wellbeing of children from conception to adulthood, includes the requirement that children live in a safe environment, and that they are protected from harm.

The Welsh Government has seven core aims around safeguarding children.  They aim to make sure that all children:

• have a flying start in life
• have a comprehensive range of education and learning opportunities
• enjoy the best possible health and are free from abuse, victimisation and exploitation
• have access to play, leisure, sporting and cultural activities
• are listened to, treated with respect, and have their race and cultural identity recognised
• have a safe home and a community which supports physical and emotional wellbeing
• are not disadvantaged by poverty.

If you are concerned about the safety or welfare of a child, please let us know. Find out how to tell us about your concerns.

Safeguarding in schools

Everyone who comes into contact with children and their families has a role to play in safeguarding children. School and college staff are particularly important as they are in a position to identify concerns early and provide help for children, to prevent concerns from escalating.

You can find out more about safeguarding on the Welsh Government website (external website).

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