Young people are encouraged to report signs of abuse and neglect.
Fearless.org has collaborated with Barnardo’s Scotland to raise awareness about the signs of child harm and neglect.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, thousands of children and young people nationwide are without the protection and care of schools and youth groups and the charities want to ensure concerns don’t go unreported.
The national programme manager for CSE for Barnardo’s Scotland, Daljeet Dagon said that child sexual abuse, exploitation, neglect and harm hasn’t ceased in lockdown.
She said: “While the nation is in lockdown, it doesn’t mean that this isn’t taking place or that children and young people are at any less risk of harm, it just means it may be taking place under different circumstances.
“It’s important that we all stay vigilant and recognise the warning signs and know what to do if we have any concerns about a child or young person’s safety.”
There are five warning signs that indicating harm and neglect. These include if a child or young person seems unclean or hungry, if they’re left at home for long periods of time or have inexplicable injuries or if they seem withdrawn or depressed.
Other warning signs include if their parent or carer they live with is often drunk or under the influence of drugs. They might also confide they’re being hurt or forced to do something against their will.
Any young person experiencing harm or neglect are encouraged to contact Childline on 0800 1111.