A campaign encouraging families in Edinburgh to seek help has been launched by the city’s Child Protection Committee and NSPCC Scotland.
All of Us has been set up to help people find out where to get support and advice with parenting or other worries about family life and where to turn if they have concerns about a child.
The campaign will also raise awareness among communities and professionals about the early signs of child neglect and how to help families who are struggling.
About one third of calls made to the NSPCC Helpline are from people concerned a child might be experiencing neglect, which is when a young person’s basic needs are not being met.
This includes the child not having warm, clean clothing; enough to eat or drink; receiving love and care; access to healthcare; and support with education.
Neglect can happen as a result of a number of issues, including parents not having support, funds or skills, and having poor mental health.
The partnership wants to help parents and carers, who may be struggling, and signpost them to where they can get advice and support before reaching crisis point.
One 20-year-old mum, who attends Stepping Stones North Edinburgh – a local charity that supports young parent families, said: “Coming here has made me feel more confident. I go to group sessions and have one-to-one support. It’s good to be able to talk to others and know that we’re all in the same boat.
“It makes you realise you are not alone, no-one judges you and it’s confidential. I sometimes come feeling really stressed but leave feeling chilled and happy to see my son and in a better place to play with him.”
Another 21-year-old mum-of-two, who is also supported by the charity, said: “Being a parent is the hardest job in the world, no matter what age you are or your kid is, and if you’re struggling just ask for help because there’s always someone out there.”
The first phase of the campaign, which launches this week, consists of a series of free family events across the city, with activities for children and information for parents and carers about where to find support and advice.
From next month, workshops will be held with professionals and volunteers who work with children, as well as with various community groups.
Carla Malseed, NSPCC Scotland local campaigns manager, said: “Looking after a child can be challenging for all parents and carers at times, and it is so important that people feel they can seek support and know where to turn for help.
“The NSPCC Helpline is there for anyone who wants advice or knows a family that needs support.”
Jackie Irvine, Chair of the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee, said: “This campaign is a first for Scotland and highlights the very real issues around child neglect. Many families may not be aware that there’s a wide range of support and we also need to raise awareness among communities and professionals about the signs of child neglect.
“We’ve got four free drop-in events across the city over the coming weeks (see below) where families can find out more about what local support is available and I would urge as many people as possible to come along.”
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For parenting advice and support visit NSPCC helpline or call 0808 800 5000, weekdays 8am to 10pm and weekends 9am to 6pm. People can also contact Social Care Direct on 0131 200 2324, their health visitor, GP or child’s school.
Free family drop-in events
Come along to one of our free family events to find out about support and activities where you live. There will be fun family activities, snacks and drinks and arts and crafts.
- Friday 31 January, Leith Community Centre, 12 noon – 2pm
- Thursday 13 February, Royston Wardieburn Community Centre, 9:30 – 11:30am
- Friday 21 February, Goodtrees Neighbourhood Centre, 1 – 3pm
- Friday 28 February, Gate 55, 55 Sighthill Road, 11am – 1pm
To find out more about the campaign visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/allofus