Lockdown seems to be with us for some time yet. Along with an increase in domestic abuse, one of the problems during lockdown is the care of vulnerable children.
During normal times, up and down the country every day, teachers do an amazing job of checking in on and looking out for the vulnerable children in their schools. If anything causes them concern, they refer the issue to social services. But with the country in lockdown, schools have limited access to those children.
Calls to Childline and the NSPCC have peaked, but referrals to social services about vulnerable children from professionals like teachers have reduced.
This is a real cause for concern for those children and how they are being looked after.
In Bristol, the city’s mayor, Marvin Rees has acknowledged the problem. He has asked people to be vigilant and help the council look after children at risk of experiencing abuse.
People in Bristol should contact the First Response Team if they have any concerns about a child in the city.
Undoubtedly, up and down the country all councils are facing the same problem.
Should you require any advice or assistance concerning your children during lockdown, please get in touch at office@childreninthemiddle.co.uk or phone us on 0117 214 1797.