Neglect is the ongoing failure to meet a child’s basic needs and is the most common form of child abuse. A child may be left hungry or dirty, without adequate clothing, shelter, supervision, medical or health care. A child may be put in danger or not protected from physical or emotional harm. They may not get the love, care and attention they need from their parents. A child who’s neglected will often suffer from other abuse as well. Neglect is dangerous and can cause serious, long-term damage – even death.
Child Neglect is a complex and challenging area of work for safeguarding practitioners. Research and learning from Serious Case Reviews tell us that neglect is multi-faceted and requires a robust multi-agency response in order that we tackle it effectively.
On this page you’ll find resources and tools which support effective practice in safeguarding.
Tools for assessing neglect
The Graded Care Profile (GCP) equips professionals to work with families in identifying the presence and nature of neglect within a family. The GCP is designed to be used by any professional in any agency working with a family where there is a concern about the care of the children. It is relevant to Health Professionals, Early Help, Education, Think Family and Children Social Care.
Instead of giving a diagnosis of neglect, it defines the care showing both strengths and weaknesses.
Neglect Resource Pack
Additional Resources
The Cardiff University, Department of Child Health and NSPCC have produced Core-Info leaflets on how neglect and emotional abuse affects children aged;
