Delivery drivers, plumbers and postal workers are urged to report signs of child abuse

Plumbers, delivery drivers and neighbours are being urged to report signs of child abuse.

The Children’s Society and the National Police Chiefs’ Council today launched a poster campaign telling anyone who fears a child is being abused to get in touch.

The campaign also targets postal workers and others whose jobs take them to people’s homes.

The Children’s Society said abuse may be going undetected during the pandemic because children are at home and less visible to teachers and social workers.

People will be urged to look out for tell-tale signs of abuse such as guarded behaviour, injuries including bruises and children looking withdrawn or anxious.

It comes as another children’s charity, the NSPCC, said it received a record numbers of calls about neglect or abuse during lockdown.

James Simmonds-Read, of the Children’s Society, said: ‘It’s a real worry that horrific child abuse and exploitation, which might be picked up on quickly in ordinary times could be going under the radar.

‘We can all play a vital role in protecting vulnerable children, which is why we are urging anyone with concerns – be it a pizza delivery driver, gas engineer or a worried neighbour – to take responsibility and report them.

‘If something doesn’t feel right, it might not be and by speaking out you could help a child escape a really dangerous, traumatic situation.’ 

Chief Constable Simon Bailey, NPCC lead on child protection, said: ‘If you suspect that a child is at risk of being abused or exploited, don’t hesitate to call police and raise your concerns – your call could save a young person from further harm.’