Signs that a child could be a victim of grooming

THE grooming gangs scandal has raised fears among many parents and carers about the safety of children and young people. 

Even as calls grow for a national enquiry, it appears unlikely new measures will be rolled out anytime soon to safeguard those at risk. 

It means parents and carers will be increasingly concerned about the risks children may be left exposed to by groomers preying on the vulnerable.

With this in mind author, counsellor and wellbeing expert Lynn Crilly has issued advice around how to spot the signs of grooming.

Lynn says:  “In a recent survey I did with my thousands Instagram followers 71% of people said they were worried about their children or grandchildren being groomed. These figures show that more needs to be done to raise awareness and educate people on the dark side of the online and real world.

“There are two types of grooming and each case is different, as is the time scale grooming can take place over.”

Outlining the different types of grooming, Lynn continued: “Grooming can take place in person but a groomer can be a total stranger or someone the victim already knows. It might be a family member, friend, or someone at a club they go to. The connection makes it easier and quicker to build up trust.

“Groomers are very good at disguising and being deceitful as to who they really are. They are good at hiding behind a keyboard, where they can take on any identity they desire, making it easier to befriend a child or young adult. The internet has a very dark side to it and this can be infiltrated in text messages, social media networks, emails, voice and video chats, forums, gaming, sadly the list is endless.

The groomers themselves are also very clever at manipulating the child or young person, so it can be really hard to detect and difficult to spot.”

Here, Lynn outlines the signs that might indicate that a child is being groomed:

Secretive behaviour: It could be a red flag if your child starts to become secretive about their online or offline activities. This also includes being protective of their devices including their phones.

Talks a lot about a specific older child or adult: Or they suddenly wants to spend more time with them, maybe meeting them alone.

Inappropriate knowledge: If a child displays knowledge or behaviour that is inappropriate for their age, such as sexualized language or understanding as this indicate exposure to adult situations 

Avoidance of certain people: if a child is ill at ease around certain adults and is not keen to be in their company this should also be explored as to why they do.

Isolating themselves: If a child spends more time alone in their room, or declines invites to be with friends or family, becoming withdrawn and isolated.

Unexplained gifts: Unexplained gifts and presents appearing without any real explanations to where they have come from. They do not want to talk about where they have come from and openly lies about it.

Stop talking to their trusted adult: As the child withdraws from their normal safe, secure everyday life they will also start to not talk to their trusted adult, lie about where they have been and who with so making it harder for the adult to keep track of where they are.

Physical signs: Look for unexplained injuries or changes in physical appearance that may indicate abuse.

Lynn added: “There are many reasons a child or young person can change their behaviour, and in my experience, no one knows their young person better than their parent, grandparent, or a loving carer. 

“So if you think something is amiss, then you are probably right. Please do not leave it, talk to your child and arm yourself with as much knowledge as you can so you can find the appropriate help and support your child or loved one.”

Free school clothing at Gyle Community Space

TUESDAY 14 JANUARY from 10.30 – 2pm

Do your children need some more clothing for school?

January can be a financially difficult month however there is a pop up uniform bank next Tuesday at Gyle Shopping Centre. All the items are free.

This is run in conjunction with @edinburghschooluniformbank

MYDG: New Year, New Programme!

‼️‼️NEW PROGRAMME‼️‼️

HERE IS OUR NEW 2025 PROGRAMME

THIS IS OUR NEW PROGRAMME BEGINNING 13th JANUARY

PLEASE NOTE:

  • GIRLS SPORTS HUB BEGINS – February
  • TRAINEE/VOLUNTEER GROUP – start date TBC

Any questions please contact us via Socials or on 0131 332 3356

Spartans: Weekend Little Dribblers classes for wee ones

NEW INDOOR SESSIONS AT CRAIGROYSTON COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

Looking to introduce your wee ones to football this year? We have the answer!

Our Little Dribblers class for kids aged 3-4 years runs on both Saturdays and Sundays.

You can choose our new indoors session at Craigroyston Community High School on Saturdays or outdoors at Ainslie Park on a Sunday.

https://scf.classforkids.io

Parents and carers urged to help children start New Year healthy

UKHSA urges parents and carers to take these simple steps to ensure children make the healthiest start to the New Year

The UK Health Security Agency is reminding parents and carers of the simple steps they can take to ensure their children make the healthiest start to the new school term. The new year brings with it an opportunity to teach children about the importance of good hygiene and with the recent increase in cases of flu and high levels of other viruses such as norovirus, it’s more important than ever.

The latest surveillance data from UKHSA shows that flu activity continued to increase over the Christmas break, with hospitalisations also increasing. Flu is now circulating at high levels in the community, an increase on the levels we saw before the school holidays, which is why it’s especially important to reinforce good hygiene habits as children return to school.

Figures are expected to rise further as children go back to school and many parents return to the workplace. However, there are simple steps that all families can take to reduce the spread of these infections and protect households and classrooms from illness this New Year.

Teaching good hygiene habits

Parents are encouraged to lead by example and encourage good hygiene habits such as using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, as well as washing hands.

Regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, or using hand sanitiser when convenient, is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Alcohol gels don’t kill all bugs so don’t rely on these.

Knowing when to keep your child at home and when to send them to school

January marks the start of a new term, with new things to learn and friends to make. Time off school can disrupt learning and also inconvenience parents and carers having to stay off work. This is why it’s important to know when to keep your child at home and when to send them to school.

Children can stay in school with symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or slight cough if otherwise well and do not have a high temperature but should stay home if they’re displaying symptoms such as having a fever. If your child has diarrhoea and vomiting, they should stay home for at least 48 hours after these symptoms clear up.

If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, you should consider wearing a face covering.

Stopping the spread of stomach bugs

Stomach bugs spread easily in schools, nurseries and households. If you or your child have diarrhoea and vomiting, washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will help stop infections from spreading.

Alcohol gels do not kill off norovirus so soap and warm water is best. Don’t prepare food for others if you have diarrhoea or vomiting or for 48 hours after symptoms stop. If you are unwell, you should also avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to avoid passing on the infection to those who are more vulnerable. Do not to return to school, nursery or work until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

Getting vaccinated

Flu vaccination helps to protect against infection and severe disease. Although it is late in the programme, if you are eligible and not yet vaccinated, you can still take up your offer of immunisation.

Last year, falling vaccination rates among young children resulted in a widespread measles outbreak in England, which is why it’s important to check your children are up-to-date with their routine vaccinations, which protect against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria and polio. If parents are unsure of their child’s vaccination status, they can check their child’s red book or contact their local GP.  

If you are pregnant, it’s also important that you take up all vaccinations offered to you, including whooping cough and the new RSV vaccine which protects newborn babies against serious illness.

Dr Richard Pebody, Director, Clinical & Emerging Infections at UKHSA, said: “It’s an important time of year, as children get started on the new school term.

“There are simple steps you can take to help stop the spread of nasty illness in the next few weeks of winter, including making sure your child is regularly washing their hands, knowing when to keep your child off school and ensuring they are up to date with vaccinations.”

Dynamic Earth expands inclusive access in 2025 with additional Relaxed Opening Dates

Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium, is excited to announce two additional Relaxed Opening Hours sessions as part of its continued commitment to inclusivity.

These sessions will take place on Friday, January 24th, and Sunday, February 23rd, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the wonders of our planet in a calm, sensory-friendly environment.

Dynamic Earth’s Relaxed Opening Hours are designed for individuals who benefit from a quieter, more supportive experience, such as those with Additional Support Needs (ASN) or sensory sensitivities. Open to all visitors, these sessions ensure everyone can enjoy the full Dynamic Earth experience in a welcoming and accessible setting.

Dynamic Earth’s approach encourages visitors to learn and explore at their own pace, giving everyone the chance to fully enjoy everything this science centre and planetarium has to offer. This is why Dynamic Earth offers sensory adjustments throughout the entire day.

Sensory Adjustments on Relaxed Opening Hours Day:

  • Reduced Visitor Numbers Throughout the Day: Allowing for a quieter, more comfortable experience across all exhibitions.
  • Altered Lighting and Audio Features: Adjusted lighting and sound create a softer environment throughout the attraction, from our entrance to exhibitions.
  • Trained Staff in Disability and Neurodiversity Awareness: Dynamic Earth’s team is equipped to support and assist all visitors, ensuring a respectful and supportive experience.
  • Subtitles on All Videos & BSL Interpretation: All videos include subtitles, and the 3 pm planetarium show will feature British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation for enhanced accessibility.
  • A Wide Range of Sensory Aids: Sensory bags, social stories, and sensory maps are available to guide and enhance each visitor’s experience.
  • Flexible Admission: Enjoy the freedom to visit Dynamic Earth’s tour and planetarium at a relaxed pace, allowing visitors to choose their best experience.
  • Designated Quiet Space: A dedicated area is available for visitors to recharge during their visit.

Dynamic Earth invites visitors to join them for these upcoming sessions in 2025:

  • Friday, January 24th (10am – 4pm)
  • Sunday, February 23rd (10am – 6pm)

Tickets are now available for booking. Start the new year with a visit to a place where everyone is welcomed, supported, and inspired.

Scottish Childline volunteer will support children on Christmas Eve

Volunteering at Childline and doing a shift for the first time on Christmas eve, Adam (36) from Springburn, Glasgow, cherishes the opportunity to be there for children, providing a trusted person to talk to.

Recognising that Christmas can be difficult and home unsafe for some children, Childline volunteer Adam will support them this festive period.

Childline, an NSPCC run service, delivered almost 5,500 counselling sessions over the 12 Days of Christmas[1] last year, averaging more than 450 a day. To manage this service, the NSPCC relies on the compassion and generosity of its volunteers. Childline is a vital service available 365 days a year to support children and young people, whatever their worry or concern.

Adam explains that the thought of a call or email going unanswered inspired him to volunteer over the Christmas period.

He said: “I previously worked with children when I was a classroom assistant, and I saw first-hand just how complicated children’s lives can be.

“Not everyone has a trusted person to talk to and someone needs to be there for them to listen, without judgement, and I feel privileged to be able to do that at Childline.

“It’s nice to know that you can be there for a child who just needs someone to listen to them. You feel you’ve made a positive difference in at least one child’s life, often more.

“There’s not much else I could do in an evening after work that would be as worthwhile.”

Adam says it’s crucial to have volunteers at Childline during the festive period and there’s fantastic support available to them from staff and other volunteers.

He said: “Last January, I recall a particularly challenging contact from a child who was upset as they had to spend time with extended family on Boxing Day including having a meal with a relative who’d sexually abused them.

“These contacts can be difficult, but they highlight the need for Childline and reminds you that you’ve got a job to do, to support the young person.

“When you talk to a child you are thinking – how can I help them to feel comfortable to open up about what’s happened to them? You also want to make sure that they don’t feel judged. I ask myself do they just need to talk or are they in need of support to come up with a course of action or solution? How are they going to start that conversation with their mum, teacher or friend?”

Adam added: “There is plenty of training and support available at the Childline base in Glasgow, including supervisor assistance before, during, and after shifts, making sure we are well-prepared to manage difficult contacts.

“As this will be my first Christmas shift, I am a bit nervous about contact from children that may ask me why Santa didn’t come? Although, I am reassured that I have my supervisor and other volunteers to support me on how to handle these kinds of concerns.”

Adam talked about how he deals with his worries in general and if he has a difficult shift on Childline.

He explains: “I like to spend time outside and enjoy hill walking and this helps with decompressing after a difficult shift or even anything else that may be going on in my own life. It’s a good way to clear my head.”

Since his volunteering journey began in January 2024, Adam has gained valuable insights to the hardship endured by children and during Christmas time.

Adam said: “Unfortunately, Christmas isn’t a positive experience for all children, as some face difficult family situations, or homelessness. The contrast between children who receive many gifts and those who receive almost nothing is stark during the holiday season.”

However, the incredible resilience of children, who often thank volunteers despite their own struggles, stands out to Adam.

He said: “The children’s strength of character shines through during the calls. Despite their difficulties, they thank you, wish you a good weekend, or chat excitedly about positive aspects of their lives. For example, when asked if they’ll do something nice as a distraction, they might say they’re going to cuddle their cat. It’s heartening to see them as whole individuals, not just their issues.”

Sometimes, Adam is the first person a child talks to about issues like friendship problems.

He explains: “It’s such a privilege to help children and young people take the next step, such as speaking to their parents about what’s worrying them. Many young people say they feel much better after speaking with Childline, and it’s so heartwarming to see the positive impact of the support.

“While I know it will be tough, I’m happy to volunteer this Christmas Eve. During the festive period children have less support from their usual networks, such as school and friends, so I’m looking forward to being there to listen to them.”

Adam wants to encourage other people to volunteer with Childline.

He said: “You can sign up for a volunteer information meeting through the Childline website. These provide valuable information without any obligation to commit.  If you do decide to be a Childline volunteer, you won’t regret it.

“Christmas is not always a happy time for everyone. It’s a stressful and challenging period for many children, and we all should be aware of this. Volunteering or donating to the NSPCC can make a significant difference for children in need during the holiday season.

“Behind the festive facade, some children are dealing with grief, the absence of family members, or the complexities of family dynamics. The true meaning of Christmas is compassion, generosity and community.  To provide a listening ear for children during Christmastime is a wonderful gift to give.”

Childline Glasgow currently has vacancies for Volunteer Counsellors.

To find out more about volunteering at Childline visit: 

https://join-us.nspcc.org.uk/volunteers/volunteers/childline/

This Christmas, a child will contact Childline every 45 seconds on average. Help the charity to make sure Childline is ready for every question this festive season by visiting the NSPCC website. Just £4 could help a counsellor answer a call this Christmas.    

The Childline service is here for children every day, even on Christmas Day. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk  

Any adult concerned about the welfare of a child or young person can call the NSPCC helpline for free on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk.

Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry Hearings: Commencement of Phase 9

In spring 2025 the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry (SCAI) will begin its public hearings in relation to Phase 9 of its investigations: The provision of residential care in establishments for children and young people with long-term healthcare needs, additional support needs, and disabilities.

SCAI’s investigations into this area of residential care have been ongoing throughout the life of the Inquiry.

The organisations involved in the provision of such residential accommodation included the National Health Service, local authorities, voluntary providers, and private providers.

The period examined by SCAI’s investigations into abuse at those establishments extends from within living memory until the end of 2014.

This case study will explore the nature and extent of all forms of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse including the abusive use of corporal punishment and restraint.

Reporting systems and the wide-ranging impact of abuse have been and continue to be aspects of SCAI’s investigations, as do staff recruitment, training, and organisational culture; these will also be explored during the case study.

The case study will include the presentation of evidence from individuals who experienced abuse when in residential care in one of these settings, from relevant experts, from regulatory bodies, and from providers.

It may include evidence from a range of other witnesses in relation to a number of particular establishments. Hearings will be held at the Inquiry’s venue at Mint House, 20 West Register Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AA.

At this stage, applications may be made for leave to appear for this case study. Anyone wishing to apply should do so as soon as possible and, in any event, no later than Friday 24 January 2025.

What is involved in having leave to appear is explained on the Inquiry’s website: 

www.childabuseinquiry.scot/procedure/pre-hearing-procedures.

Application forms are also available on the website: 

www.childabuseinquiry.scot/procedure/application-leave-appear.

Members of the public do not need leave to appear to watch hearings from the public areas in the Inquiry’s venue. They are welcome to do so at any time.

SCAI has also created an Easy Read information guide with simple language and pictures to help people understand more about the Inquiry. This is now available on the website: www.childabuseinquiry.scot/accessibility-support

Seventeen establishments have now been confirmed as being included in the case study:

SchoolProviderLocation
Children’s HomeAlgrade TrustHumbie
Donaldson’s School for Deaf ChildrenThe Donaldson TrustEdinburgh
Harmeny SchoolHarmeny Education TrustBalerno
Ladyfield East Unit, Crichton Royal Hospital Hannahfield Hall Unit, Crichton Royal Hospital Ladyfield West Unit, Crichton Royal Hospital Eskdale House Unit, Crichton Royal Hospital NHS Dumfries & GallowayDumfries
Lendrick Muir SchoolSeamabRumbling Bridge
Lennox Castle HospitalNHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde, and East Dunbartonshire CouncilLennoxtown, Glasgow
Linnwood Hall Children’s HomeFife CouncilLeven
Melville HouseFife CouncilCupar
Monken Hadley / Corsbie Hall / Woodlands SchoolIndependentNewton Stewart
Ovenstone Residential SchoolFife CouncilPittenweem
Royal Blind SchoolRoyal BlindEdinburgh
Royal Scottish National HospitalNHS Forth ValleyLarbert
Starley Hall SchoolIndependentBurntisland
St Joseph’s HospitalDaughters of Charity of St Vincent de Paul Rosewell
St Mary’s BalnakeilCongregation of the Poor Servants of the Mother of GodGalashiels
St Vincent’s School for the Deaf and BlindDaughters of Charity of St Vincent de PaulTollcross, Glasgow
Woodfield Ladymary SchoolOur Lady of Charity of the Good ShepherdColinton, Edinburgh