Coronavirus lockdown sees surge in calls to NSPCC as charity urges the public to rally around children to keep them safe
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The children’s charity said that it has seen a 50% increase in calls to its helpline from adults who are worried about children facing threats and verbal abuse in the first month of lockdown, compared to the four weeks previous.
And as the coronavirus lockdown continues the NSPCC said there has been a weekly rise in contacts about neglect, physical and emotional abuse of children.
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Hide AdAccording to the charity, lockdown is likely to be intensifying abuse and increasing the impact it has on children who can’t escape it.
For many children who suffer abuse, the protective eyes and ears of teachers are now not there.
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Hide AdIt is calling on the public to continue standing up for the many children who are hidden victims of coronavirus by contacting the charity.
NSPCC Chief Executive Peter Wanless said: “Children are the hidden victims of coronavirus and for young people stuck in unsafe homes during lockdown the abuse can be relentless with little opportunity of respite or escape.
“The frontline of child protection is no longer the school, it’s in our communities.
“Just like we come together to look out for older and vulnerable neighbours we need to make sure children are safe and well in these exceptional times.”
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Hide AdMr Wanless said a call to the NSPCC Helpline could act as a lifeline for a child in these unprecedented circumstances.
He said: “Our helpline can act as a lifeline for a child struggling behind closed doors and the public can get in touch with any concerns so our professionals can provide advice or take action if a young person is at risk.”
Anyone who is concerned about a child’s wellbeing can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice and support on 0808 800 5000 or via [email protected]