Dear readers,

As a community, we share a collective responsibility to protect our children and safeguard their well-being. Recent data released by the NSPCC from a YouGov survey brings to light some alarming statistics regarding child abuse and neglect. These findings highlight a pressing need for action, awareness, and education on this critical issue.

Survey Results: A Call to Action

Letters It’s Time To Listen Up And Speak Up

Source: https://www.bedfordindependent.co.uk/letters-its-time-to-listen-up-and-speak-up/

The survey, which included 373 adults from the East of England, revealed that nearly one-third (32%) had concerns that a child they knew might be experiencing abuse or neglect. Even more troubling is that one in five of these concerned adults (19%) did not take any action. This inaction could stem from uncertainty about what to do or fear of repercussions.

In light of these findings, it is paramount for individuals within our communities to feel empowered and knowledgeable about how to respond to signs of child abuse and neglect. Ignoring these signs can have severe and lasting effects on the lives of vulnerable children.

The "Listen Up, Speak Up" Campaign

The NSPCC has launched the 'Listen up, Speak up' campaign to address this issue head-on. This campaign is designed to help adults recognise the signs of abuse and provide them with the tools and confidence needed to take appropriate action. The goal is to create a supportive environment where both adults and children feel safe to speak out and access the help they need.

Free Interactive Workshops

To further support our local communities, the NSPCC Local Campaigns Team in the East of England is offering free interactive workshops from August to December. These workshops aim to educate participants on recognising abuse, understanding the best response strategies, and knowing how to report it effectively. By equipping adults with this knowledge, we can collectively work towards a safer environment for our children.

The following dates are available for these free virtual workshops on Zoom:

  • Monday, 19 August at 6pm
  • Thursday, 26 September at 7pm
  • Thursday, 24 October at 7pm
  • Thursday, 14 November at 1pm
  • Tuesday, 10 December at 6pm

We encourage anyone interested in attending these workshops to register by emailing [email protected]. For more information on the campaign, simply search ‘NSPCC Listen up, Speak up’ online.

Taking Responsibility as a Community

It is our collective duty to ensure that children in our community are protected and supported. By attending these workshops and staying informed, we can foster a safer and more vigilant society. The NSPCC is committed to providing the necessary support to both children and the adults who step forward to protect them. Let us all commit to listening up, speaking up, and taking action to prevent child abuse.

Sincerely,

Emma-Louise Copperwheat

NSPCC Local Campaigns Officer for the East of England