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The charges against California couple David and Louise Turpin include torture and child abuse.

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Types of abuse

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We've got information and advice on different types of abuse, how to spot the signs and what you can do to help keep children safe.

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Keeping Teen Moms in School - A School Social Work Challenge

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This page tells you what child abuse means, and what the effects can be.

What is child abuse?

There is no clear legal definition of 'child abuse' but there are laws to protect children from harm. For example local authorities and certain other agencies or organisations that come into contact with children have a legal duty to protect them if they are:

under 18, and

suffering, or are likely to suffer, significant harm.

Harm to a child means ill treatment or damage to their health or development. Here are some examples of things which would cause harm and where a child would need protection.

Neglect

Neglect is the on-going failure to meet a child's basic physical needs or psychological needs, or both. Neglect can happen during pregnancy because of the mother's substance abuse, or if a father has been violent to a mother during pregnancy. Once a child is born, neglect may happen if a parent:

doesn't provide adequate food, clothing and shelter. This would include throwing a young person out of the family home

fails to protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger

doesn't supervise a child properly. This would include making inadequate childcare-arrangements

doesn't allow the child access to appropriate medical care or treatment.

It may also include neglect of a child's basic emotional needs.

The neglect could be intentional or unintentional, and, if assessing a child for neglect, attention should be paid to both parents, not just the mother.

Physical injury

This could be threat of injury, or an actual physical injury, such as hitting or shaking a child.

Emotional abuse

This is treatment which causes serious damage to a child's emotional development.

Examples include:

constant or unjust punishment

withholding affection

telling a child that they are worthless

not giving a child opportunities to express their views

preventing a child from taking part in normal social interaction

letting a child see or hear the ill-treatment of someone else, for example, in a domestic violence situation

serious bullying, including cyber bullying, causing the child to feel frightened or in danger

All forms of abuse involve some emotional ill-treatment. The abuse could be intentional or unintentional.

Sexual abuse

This is where a child is made to take part in sexual activities, whether or not they know what's happening and whether or not there is a threat of violence. It may involve:

physical contact, for example, inappropriate touching or sexual assault

non-contact activities, such as showing children pornographic images or grooming a child in preparation for abuse (including via the internet)

using young people in prostitution. All young people under 18 used in prostitution are victims of child sexual abuse

female genital mutilation.

Domestic abuse

If a child sees or hears domestic violence or abuse between their parents, this could, in itself, amount to child abuse. If you're an adult victim of domestic abuse, and you aren't willing to take action to protect yourself, this could lead the local authority having concerns about the harm this could cause your children. If the local authority is already investigating possible concerns about abuse of your child, it's very important for you to tell them about the domestic abuse. This is so you can get the protection that both you and your child need.

The effects of child abuse

As well as the obvious short-term effects, child abuse can lead to long-term and serious damage to a child. For example, it can lead to long-standing physical and mental health difficulties such as depression, eating disorders, substance misuse and self-harm. Children who have been abused may find it hard to trust other people - this could make it difficult for them to form healthy relationships in the future. For all these reasons, it's very important to take steps to protect children from abuse.

Next steps

Other useful information

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national society for the prevention of cruelty to children

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This page tells you what child abuse means, and what the effects can be. There is no clear legal definition of 'child abuse' but there are laws to protect children from harm.

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Find out about help and support for young mums and pregnant teenagers, including carrying on with your education.

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Child abuse and neglect is a social and public health problem, as well as a children's rights issue in Australia. Abuse and neglect can lead to a wide range of adverse consequences for children and young people. This paper provides an overview of the possible effects of child abuse and neglect and explores whether different types of maltreatment are associated with specific adverse consequences in childhood and adolescence.

Types of abuse and neglect

Child abuse and neglect refers to any behaviour by parents, caregivers, other adults or older adolescents that is outside the norms of conduct and entails a substantial risk of causing physical or emotional harm to a child or young person. Such behaviours may be intentional or unintentional and can include acts of omission (i.e., neglect) and commission (i.e., abuse) (Bromfield, 2005; Cristofel et al., 1992; Gilbert et al., 2009). The five main subtypes of child abuse and neglect are physical abuse, emotional maltreatment, neglect, sexual abuse, and witnessing family violence.

For more information on the definitions of child abuse and neglect see What is Child Abuse and Neglect?

Factors affecting the consequences of child abuse and neglect

Not all children exposed to similar experiences of abuse and neglect are affected in the same way. For some children and young people, the effects of child abuse and neglect may be chronic and debilitating; others may experience less adverse outcomes (Miller-Perrin & Perrin, 2007). A range of other life experiences and family circumstances - both positive and negative - impact on a child's vulnerability or resilience in the face of maltreatment. Resilience refers to the ability of a child to cope and even thrive despite being exposed to negative experiences (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2008; Hunter, 2012). When a child who has experienced abuse or neglect has few protective factors (such as positive relationships with extended family and friends), the risk of more serious adverse outcomes increases. Risk factors that may contribute to poorer outcomes for children exposed to abuse and neglect include socio-economic disadvantage, social isolation, living in dangerous neighbourhoods, large families, a caregiver with depression or alcohol or drug dependence, and whether the child has a disability (Dubowitz & Bennett, 2007; Jaffee & Maikovich-Fong, 2011). Factors that contribute to a child's resilience include child attributes (e.g., self-esteem and independence), features of the family environment (e.g., parenting quality), and extra-familial and community resources (e.g., high quality peer relationships and school environment) (Haskett et al., 2006; Hunter, 2012).

Critical factors that influence the way child abuse and neglect affects children and young people includethe frequency and duration of maltreatment and the co-occurrence of multiple forms of maltreatment.

Chronic maltreatment defined as "recurrent incidents of maltreatment over a prolonged period of time" (Bromfield & Higgins, 2005, p. 39) has been linked to worse outcomes than transitory or isolated incidents of maltreatment (e.g., Ethier, Lemelin, & Lacharite, 2004; Graham et al., 2010; Johnson-Reid, Kohl, & Brett, 2012).

Research suggests that maltreatment types are interrelated, that is, a large proportion of children and young people who experience childhood abuse or neglect are exposed to more than one type of abuse (known as multi-type maltreatment). Further to this, other forms of victimisation such as bullying or assault by a peer have often been found to co-occur with child maltreatment (known as poly-victimisation) (Finkelhor, Ormrod, & Turner, 2006). Research indicates that those who experience multi-type maltreatment and/or poly-victimisation are more likely to experience high levels of trauma symptoms and worse outcomes than those who are exposed to no maltreatment or only one type (Finkelhor et al., 2006; Higgins & McCabe, 2001).

In attempting to explain some of the adverse outcomes associated with chronic and multi-type maltreatment a concept that is often employed is complex trauma. Complex trauma reflects the multiple and interacting symptoms, disorders, multiple adverse experiences, and the broad range of cognitive, affective and behavioural outcomes associated with prolonged trauma, particularly if occurring early in life and involving an interpersonal element (e.g., sexual abuse) (Price-Robertson, Rush, Wall, & Higgins, 2013). Complex trauma affects the developing brain and may interfere with a child's capacity to integrate sensory, emotional and cognitive information, which may lead to over-reactive responses to subsequent stress and long-term effects such as cognitive, behavioural, physical and mental health problems (National Scientific Council on the Developing Child [NSCDC], 2007; Perry, 2001; Streeck-Fischer & van der Kolk, 2000).

For further details on chronic maltreatment, the interrelatedness of sub-types of child abuse and neglect, and complex trauma, see Rarely An Isolated Incident: Acknowledging the Interrelatedness of Child Maltreatment, Victimisation and Trauma (Price-Robertson et al., 2013).

Other factors that can affect the consequences of child abuse and neglect on children and adolescents include:

the age and developmental stage at which maltreatment occurred: some evidence suggests that the younger the child was at the time of the onset of the maltreatment, the more likely they are to experience problems later in life;

the severity of maltreatment: the greater the severity of abuse or neglect, the higher the likelihood of negative outcomes;

the type/s of abuse and/or neglect: different sub-types of maltreatment may be related to different negative outcomes;

the child or young person's perceptions of the abuse: worse outcomes are likely if the victim/survivor experiences feelings of self-blame, shame or stigmatisation; and

the relationship the child or young person had (or has) with the perpetrator: for example, in child sexual abuse increased negative affects tend to be associated with the perpetrator being a father, father-figure or someone with whom the child has an intense, emotional relationship (Bromfield & Higgins, 2005; Miller-Perrin & Perrin, 2007; Price-Robertson et al., 2013).

Trauma, stress and the developing brain

Trauma caused by experiences of child abuse and neglect appears to have serious effects on the developing brain (McCrory, De Brito, & Viding, 2010; Streeck-Fischer & van der Kolk, 2000). The Center of the Developing Child at Harvard University has released a range of working papers that critically review the literature on brain development (NSCDC, 2007; 2010; 2012). They have noted several key messages:

Brains develop over time and through interaction with the environment.

Chronic, toxic stress of the sort experienced by maltreated children, and particularly in the absence of consistent, supportive and interactive relationships with adult caregivers, has been found to have an especially deleterious effect on young children's growing brains (NSCDC, 2007; 2012).

Exposure to complex and chronic trauma can result in persistent psychological problems.

The interaction between genes and environment also plays a role in how the brain develops, particularly during the early developmental period (NSCDC, 2007; 2010).

Consequences of child abuse and neglect

Child abuse and neglect can affect all domains of development - physical, psychological, emotional, behavioural, and social - all of which are interrelated. The remainder of this paper discusses the possible consequences of child abuse and neglect identified in the research literature. The research reviewed included high-quality systematic reviews and primary studies with large representative samples in English-speaking countries. Adverse consequences are broadly linked to all abuse types; however, where appropriate, associations are made between specific types of maltreatment and negative outcomes.

Attachment and interpersonal relationship problems

Babies and young infants exposed to abuse and neglect are more likely to experience insecure or disorganised attachment problems with their primary caregiver (Baer & Martinez, 2006; Cyr, Euser, Bakermans-Kranenburg, & Van Ijzendoorn, 2010; Jordan & Sketchley, 2009; Meadows, Tunstill, George, Dhudwar, & Kurtz, 2011; Schore, 2002; Streeck-Fischer & van der Kolk, 2000). Patterns of child-caregiver attachment are extremely important for a child's early emotional and social development. For children with an insecure attachment, the parent/caregiver, who should be the primary source of safety, protection and comfort, becomes a source of danger or harm (Cyr et al., 2010; Hildyard & Wolf, 2002). Without the security and support from a primary caregiver, babies and infants may find it difficult to trust others when in distress, which may lead to persistent experiences of anxiety or anger (Streeck-Fischer & van der Kolk, 2000).

Insecure attachments alter the normal developmental process for children, which can severely affect a child's ability to communicate and interact with others and form healthy relationships throughout their life (Bacon & Richardson, 2001). Reviews of the literature have reported that child maltreatment is associated with problematic peer relationships in childhood and adolescence (Meadows et al., 2011; Trickett, Negriff, Ji, & Peckins, 2011). Further to this, difficulties in peer relations may be a precursor to difficulties in romantic relations (Trickett et al., 2011).

Learning and developmental problems

Strong associations have been made between child maltreatment and learning difficulties and/or poor academic achievement (Gilbert et al., 2009; Mills, 2004; Veltman & Browne, 2001). Abuse and neglect in the early years of life can seriously affect the developmental capacities of infants, especially in the critical areas of speech and language (Wolfe, 1999).

Prospective research studies have consistently shown that maltreated children have lower educational achievement than other groups of children (Gilbert et al., 2009). In a meta-analysis by Veltman and Browne (2001), 31 of 34 studies (91%) indicated that abuse and neglect was related to poor school achievement and 36 of 42 (86%) indicated delays in language development. However, the authors acknowledged that studies associating child abuse and neglect with learning problems are problematic in that most studies do not know the intellectual status of children before maltreatment. A more recent longitudinal study of maltreated children in the United States found that chronicity of maltreatment affected maths scores negatively and type of maltreatment affected reading scores negatively but higher intelligence and daily living skills (e.g., ability to dress oneself, ability to perform household tasks) were protective factors against poor math and reading performance (Coohey, Renner, Hua, Zhang, & Whitney, 2011).

Mental health problems

Extensive research has identified a strong relationship between child maltreatment and a range of mental health problems, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often reported (Gilbert et al., 2009; Greeson et al., 2011; Kearney, Wechsler, Kaur, & Lemos-Miller, 2010; Schore, 2002; Streeck-Fischer & van der Kolk, 2000). Recent research suggests that diagnosing children with PTSD does not capture the full developmental effects of chronic child abuse and neglect and as noted previously, many researchers now prefer the term "complex trauma" (Cook et al., 2005; Price-Robertson et al., 2013). Maltreated children experiencing PTSD symptoms are also often found to be experiencing other disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant and conduct disorders, substance abuse, and anxiety, mood, psychotic, and adjustment disorders (Kearney, Wechsler, Kaur, & Lemos-Miller, 2010).

Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety disorders, have consistently been linked with child abuse and neglect, particularly for adolescents (Brown, Cohen, Johnson, & Smailes, 1999; Gilbert et al., 2009; Harkness & Lumley, 2008; Kaufman, 1991). In a review of seven large-scale studies, all studies showed a high association between child maltreatment and depression in adolescence (Harkness & Lumley, 2008). For example, the authors cited a longitudinal study by Brown and colleagues which found that children and adolescents who reported a history of abuse or neglect were three times more likely to exhibit a depressive disorder than non-maltreated children. Similarly, in a Victorian study of characteristics of children referred to a therapeutic health service for children who had been abused or neglected (the Take Two Program), 62% of children met the criteria for at least one mental health diagnosis (Frederico, Jackson, & Black, 2008).

Eating disorders, including anorexia and binge-purge behaviour (bulimia), may also be associated with child abuse and neglect (Brewerton, 2007). Sexual abuse has been widely linked to eating disorders in children and adolescents; however, experiencing other maltreatment types or multiple forms of abuse and neglect have also been shown to increase the risk of developing an eating disorder (Brewerton, 2007).

Youth suicide

Research suggests that abuse and neglect significantly increases the risk of suicidal ideation and attempted suicide for young people (Brodsky & Stanley, 2008; Evans, Hawton, & Rodham, 2005; Miller, Esposito-Smythers, Weismoore, & Renshaw, 2013; Thompson et al., 2012). A systematic review by Evans and colleagues (2005) found a strong link between physical and sexual abuse and attempted suicide/suicidal thoughts occurring during adolescence. Similarly, in a systematic review of the literature, Miller and colleagues (2013) found that although all forms of maltreatment were associated with adolescent suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, child sexual abuse and emotional abuse might be more important than physical abuse or neglect. Supporting this, Brodksy and Stanley (2008) found that risks of repeated suicide attempts were eight times greater for youths with a sexual abuse history. The authors suggested that sexual abuse could be specifically related to suicidal behaviour because it is closely associated with feelings of shame and internal attributions of blame (Brodsky & Stanley, 2008).

Alcohol and other drug use

The psychological effects of child abuse and neglect may lead to alcohol and drug abuse problems in adolescence and adulthood (Fergusson & Lynskey, 1997; Harrison, Fulkerson, & Beebe, 1997; Perkins & Jones, 2004). Evidence suggests that all types of child maltreatment are significantly related to higher levels of substance use (tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs) (Moran, Vuchinich, & Hall, 2004). It is less clear if particular types of maltreatment are more closely linked to substance misuse and what factors, if any, may mediate the relationship although physical abuse and combinations of abuse do appear to be associated with increased substance abuse (Trickett et al., 2011). In surveying public school students in Grades 6, 9 and 12 in the United States, Harrison and colleagues (1997) found that experiences of physical or sexual abuse increased the likelihood of students using alcohol, marijuana and other drugs. A further study in the United States found that 28% of physically abused adolescents used drugs compared to 14% of non-abused adolescents (Perkins & Jones, 2004). Compared to 22% of the non-abused group, 36% of physically abused adolescents also had high levels of alcohol use.

Behavioural problems

Researchers have found that child abuse and neglect is associated with behaviour problems in childhood and adolescence (Ethier et al., 2004; Mills, 2004; Shaffer, Huston, & Egeland, 2008). The earlier children are maltreated the more likely they are to develop behaviour problems in adolescence (Frederico et al., 2008). Researchers have often associated maltreatment with internalising behaviours (being withdrawn, sad, isolated and depressed) and externalising behaviours (being aggressive or hyperactive) throughout childhood (Mills, 2004). Longitudinal studies have shown that exposure to a single type of maltreatment as well as multiple types is related to increased internalising and externalising behaviours in childhood and adolescence (Moylan et al., 2009). A large, nationally representative study in the United States reported that children who were maltreated in multiple developmental periods (infancy, toddlerhood, preschool years and early school years) displayed more problem behaviours than children maltreated in only one developmental period and children who were chronically maltreated tended to display more problem behaviours than children suffering situational maltreatment, although this was mediated by a range of family variables such as caregivers having alcohol or drug dependence, lower levels of education or diagnoses of depression (Jaffee & Maikovich-Fong, 2011).

Aggression, violence and criminal activity

In addition to feeling pain and suffering themselves, children exposed to abuse and neglect are at increased risk of inflicting pain on others and developing aggressive and violent behaviours in adolescence (Gilbert et al., 2009; Haapasalo & Pokela, 1999; Maas, Herrenkohl, & Sousa, 2008; Trickett et al., 2011). Research suggests that physical abuse and exposure to family violence are the most consistent predictors of youth violence (Gilbert et al., 2009; Maas et al., 2008). In a meta-analysis by Gilbert and colleagues, both prospective and retrospective studies indicated strong associations between child abuse and neglect and criminal behaviour. A National Institute of Justice study in the United States predicted that abused and neglected children were 11 times more likely to be arrested for criminal behaviour in adolescence (English, Widom, & Brandford, 2004). Eighty three per cent of children in the Take Two program in Victoria demonstrated repeated and severe violence towards others (Frederico et al., 2008).

Physical health problems

Research investigating the effect child abuse and neglect has on overall physical health has largely focused on outcomes in adulthood. However, data from the Longitudinal Studies of Child Abuse and Neglect (LONGSCAN) in the United States has indicated strong associations between abuse/neglect and health problems in children/adolescents (Flaherty et al., 2006, 2009). Flaherty et al. (2006) found that exposure to one adverse experience doubled the odds of children having overall poor physical health at the age of 6 years, and tripled them if children had experienced four or more adverse experiences. A further study by Hussey, Chang, and Kotch (2006) found that all types of abuse and neglect were associated with 8 of 10 major adolescent health risks.

A common form of abuse affecting the health of babies is shaken baby syndrome. Health problems resulting from shaken baby syndrome may include brain damage, spinal cord injuries, hearing loss, speech difficulties and even death (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2008).

Teenage pregnancy

Adverse consequences of teenage pregnancy and risky sexual activity may also be associated with experiences of abuse and neglect (Fergusson, Horwood, & Lynskey, 1997; Gilbert et al., 2009; Hillis et al., 2004; Mendes & Moslehuddin, 2006; Noell, Rohde, Seeley, & Ochs, 2001). Research has consistently linked teenage pregnancy with experiences of sexual abuse (Hillis et al., 2004; Paolucci, Genuis, & Violato, 2001). Meta-analyses of 21 studies of child sexual abuse reported that this form of abuse more than doubled the risk of adolescent pregnancy (i.e., prior to age 20 years) (Noll, Shenk, & Putnam, 2009). Further to this, a study by Fergusson and colleagues (1997) found that young women (18 years of age) exposed to child sexual abuse had significantly higher rates of teenage pregnancy, increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases, and higher rates of multiple sexual partnerships and appeared to be more vulnerable to further sexual assault and rape.

Homelessness

Research suggests that children and young people may encounter homelessness or housing instability as a result of abuse and neglect (Edidin, Ganim, Hunter, & Karnik, 2012). Homelessness is more likely to eventuate in adulthood however, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) estimated that approximately 25,503 children were homeless on Census night in 2011 (29% of the homeless population) (ABS, 2012). The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) indicated that 56,559 children aged up to 15 years accompanied their parents into Specialist Homelessness services in 2011-12. The main reason for accompanied children to seek support was domestic and family violence (33%) (AIHW, 2012).

Young people who are removed from the care of their parents because of abuse or neglect may also face homelessness and unemployment soon after leaving out-of-home care (e.g., when they turn 18). A lack of social support networks and poor academic achievement often contribute to the difficulties young people face in finding adequate housing and employment after care.

For a more detailed discussion on the relationship between child abuse/neglect and adverse consequences of unemployment/homelessness in adulthood, see Effects of Child Abuse and Neglect for Adult Survivors.

Fatal abuse

The most tragic and extreme consequence of child abuse and neglect is abuse that results in death. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated 31,000 homicide deaths of children aged 15 or younger around the world occur every year (WHO, 2010). This is considered an underestimation as a large number of deaths caused by abuse and neglect go unreported due to being misattributed to other causes such as falls or insufficient investigations and a failure to run post-mortem examinations (Gilbert et al., 2009; WHO, 2010).

In Australia, all deaths are registered at a state level by the Registrar for Births, Deaths and Marriages. Statistics are compiled and reported by the ABS, and include assault. No national data collection exists to describe deaths of Australian children due to abuse and/or neglect. For further information on child deaths from maltreatment by state in Australia, see Child Deaths from Abuse and Neglect.

Research limitations

Research investigating the effects of child abuse and neglect is extensive. However, in most research studies, due to several limitations, it is difficult to make causal links between abuse/neglect and adverse consequences. Additionally, many research studies are unable to control for other environmental and social factors, which makes it difficult to rule out influences such as socio-economic disadvantage, disability and social isolation when associating maltreatment with negative consequences for children and young people. Other research limitations include problems with definitions (for example, type or severity of abuse), recruiting a representative sample, and obtaining accurate recollections of past events by participants (Gilbert et al., 2009; Maas et al., 2008). In spite of the various limitations, research in the area consistently identifies strong links between child abuse and neglect and adverse consequences for children and adolescents.

Conclusion

Child abuse and neglect may lead to a wide range of adverse consequences for children and adolescents. Research suggests that specific types of abuse are more closely related to some adverse outcomes than others, for example, the links between physical abuse and violent or aggressive behaviour. However, experiencing chronic and multiple forms of abuse increase the risk of more damaging and severe consequences for children and young people.

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Effects of child abuse and neglect for children and adolescents

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Child abuse and neglect is a social and public health problem, as well as a children's rights issue in Australia. Abuse and neglect can lead to a wide range of adverse consequences for children and young people.

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How The Lighthouse helps

Getting the right support when a child has been abused is so important. But after sexual abuse, children and their families often struggle to navigate health and social care, therapeutic services, police, and often, the criminal justice process by themselves.

That's why we're proud to have helped launch The Lighthouse, London's first Child House, in October 2018. It's the first centre in the UK to bring multiple agencies together under one roof to provide a child-friendly, multidisciplinary service for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation. Based in Camden, it serves the London boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington.

The Lighthouse is a truly collaborative effort, with services provided by University College London Hospitals (UCLH) and The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trusts, NSPCC, The Brandon Centre, Camden Council, The Metropolitan Police Service, Respond, and Solace Women's Aid.

"The Lighthouse has been a little bit of refuge."
Parent in London

W hen a child has experienced sexual abuse , they and their family are often left to navigate finding the right support for their child alone. From health care professionals, social workers, therapists and the police - this frequently means the child has to re-tell and re-live their experience with each agency or professional, risking being re-traumatised by the process .

The Lighthouse is based on the international Child House ( Barnahus ) model, established in Reykjavik in 1998. This model is child-centred, allowing medical and sexual health professionals, counsellors, therapists, and the police to work together under one roof - guiding children, young people and their families through their journey of recovery, helping them access the support they need at every step, including the court process.

"I only have to tell the story once."
Child using The Lighthouse in London

In London, where The Lighthouse is based, research has identified a "significant unmet need" for emotional and health support for children who have experienced sexual abuse. Those who do sometimes have to wait months to receive therapy and the support they need. One study found that 8 in 10 adolescents who experienced sexual abuse had mental health problems 4-5 months after the assault. That is why it is so important children get the help they need when they need it.

In 2019/20, The Lighthouse received 321 referrals, meaning approximately 1 in 2 children in North Central London who reported sexual offences were referred there for support. The Lighthouse team were able to accept 258 of those through this difficult time.

"I like the way I can talk and be advised and listened to. I can also talk about what I'd like to talk about."
Child using The Lighthouse in London

"I don't know how my family would have got through this trauma without this service. Truly amazing."
Parent in London

The Mayor of London's Office for Policing and Crime is evaluating t he Lighthouse and has published 3 reports to date, with a final report due in S ummer 2021.

We believe every child should have the support they need after facing sexual abuse. Being a partner in The Lighthouse has shown us the difference a Child House can make for young people who've experienced abuse and we're pleased that funding for The Lighthouse in London has been extended to March 2022.

"Think it's a great service dedicated to young people and their families. Should have more around the UK"
Parent in London

Given the success of The Lighthouse in London, we'll advocate nationally for the benefits of this model and campaign to have new sites funded and built across the UK.

With support from government and commissioners, we can make the Child Houses model an integral part of the support and services available to children who've experienced abuse.

Thanks to the Home Office, The Mayor of London's Office for Policing and Crime, NHS England, the Department for Education, charity partner Morgan Stanley (who raised over £1.5m) this multi-agency project was brought to life. The generous funding the project received helped to refurbish and transform the NSPCC's service centre in North London.
£25 could pay for toys for children to use during therapeutic sessions to help explain how they're feeling. Around 90% of our income is donated - we can only be here with your help.

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Getting the right support when a child has been abused is so important. But after sexual abuse, children and their families often struggle to navigate health and social care, therapeutic services, police, and often, the criminal justice process by themselves. That's why we're proud to have helped launch The Lighthouse, London's first Child House, in October 2018.

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We don't know exactly how many children in the UK are victims of child abuse. Child abuse is usually hidden from view and children may be too young, too scared or too ashamed to tell anyone about what is happening to them.

However, there are a number of different sources of information, including official government statistics and academic research. These give us an indication of the number of children who are affected by abuse.

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We don't know exactly how many children in the UK are victims of child abuse. Child abuse is usually hidden from view and children may be too young, too scared or too ashamed to tell anyone about what is happening to them.

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Child abuse has many potential negative impacts

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Information helps us to understand the ways child abuse can affect survivors, how and why it affects them and the daily challenges survivors often face.

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An Arizona infant has died after his father allegedly bent him in half to stop him from crying.

Robert Resendiz told police that he had pressed his infant's legs over his head in an attempt to quiet him, according to a probable cause for arrest statement obtained by azfamily.com.

The 30-year-old estimated he used 65 per cent of strength to bend the baby in half, and did not release pressure until his son went quiet and limp. He also allegedly admitted to biting the 6-month-old twice out of frustration.

The infant suffered a liver laceration, left wrist fracture, laceration to his pancreas, and bruising on his thigh, according to court records obtained by CNN. He died in the hospital two days later.

Mr Resendiz allegedly told police that he put his son to bed at 10 or 11 pm on the day of the incident, and woke up the next morning to find the child had stopped breathing.

His mother told police that the baby was "awake and alert" when she left for work that morning, and that she received a text from Mr Resendiz saying that the baby was fine at around 11:45 am. An hour later, he texted to say the baby was not breathing.

Police arrested the father shortly after he called 911 to report his son's condition. The infant was rushed to Phoenix Children's Hospital, where doctors deemed his injuries "not survivable".

Mr Resendiz was charged with intentional child abuse, a class two felony in Arizona. His preliminary hearing will take place on Friday. He has not yet formally entered a plea.

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6-month-old dies after father 'bends him in two to stop him from crying'

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An Arizona infant has died after his father allegedly bent him in half to stop him from crying. Robert Resendiz told police that he had pressed his infant's legs over his head in an attempt to quiet him, according to a probable cause for arrest statement obtained by azfamily.com.

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This page explains the law on child abuse, including the different forms of abuse and what to do if you are concerned about a child.

If you think a child is in immediate danger call the police on 999
or the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000

What is child abuse?

There are several different forms of child abuse which can cause significant harm to a child. This can include physical, emotional and sexual abuse as well as neglect.

Physical Abuse

If a child is deliberately hurt causing them physical harm, such as cuts, bruises, broken bones or other injuries, this would be considered a form of physical abuse.

Physical abuse can include hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm to a child.

It can also include fabricating symptoms of an illness or inducing an illness in a child.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse

Emotional or psychological abuse is the persistent emotional maltreatment or neglect of a child which causes severe and persistent adverse effects on the child's emotional development. For example, it might be telling a child that they are worthless, unloved or inadequate or excluding them from activities, silencing them or being overprotective.

It can also include requiring a child to take on responsibilities which are not appropriate for their age. It can also include witnessing abuse.

Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse involves persuading or forcing a child to take part in sexual activities, or encouraging a child to behave in sexually inappropriate ways. It includes child grooming, causing a child to witness sexual activity, sharing indecent images of children, paying for the sexual services of a child, and encouraging child prostitution or pornography.

Neglect

Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child's basic and essential needs. It can occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. It can include a failure to provide adequate food, clothing and shelter, failure to protect a child from physical and emotional harm and failure to provide adequate medical care or treatment.

What can I do if I think a child is at risk of child abuse?

The police operate a national scheme known as Sarah's Law or the Child sex offender disclosure scheme where anybody can formally ask the police whether a person who has contact with children has a record for child sex offences. The police can disclose this information to parents, carers or guardians if it would be in the child's best interests to do so.

The information released must remain confidential and can only be used to safeguard children. The person receiving the information will be required to sign an undertaking agreeing to keeping the information confidential and legal action may be taken if this confidentiality is breached.

The particular procedure for asking this information will vary according to your local police force and you should contact them for more information. Further guidance on the scheme can be found here.

Am I under a duty to report child abuse?

There is no legal duty on an individual to report abuse. However, a person may be under a duty to report an abuse by virtue of their employment.

Some employers are under a duty to have a Child Protection Policy within their workplace which places a duty upon their employees to safeguard and promote the welfare of children; this includes reporting abuse to the relevant authorities. Bodies that are generally under this duty include Schools, colleges, health authorities and health trusts. Further information on this can be found in the Government guidance: Working Together to Safeguard Children 2015.

Some employers are under a duty to have a Child Protection Policy within their workplace.

Will the parents know that I have phoned Children's Services about their child and will I know what Children's Services decide to do?

The name of the person reporting the abuse will not be released to the parents or to anyone else, apart from those responsible for investigating the allegation. When informing Children's Services about any possible abuse, it is usually a good idea to provide your name and address, but you can remain anonymous if you wish. It is very unlikely that Children's Services will provide further information to the person who disclosed the alleged abuse to them. If Children's Services do provide further information, it could amount to a breach of confidentiality.

If you are a parent (and have Parental Responsibility) of the child(ren) about whom you reported as suffering abuse, by virtue of your position and involvement in their lives, you may be kept informed of what action is being taken by Children's Services. Children's Services should not disclose who reported abuse if the disclosure was made by an individual.

The NSPCC can make referrals to Children's Services if there are concerns for a child. This can be done anonymously; Children's Services will then determine whether further assessment and/or action needs to be taken.

Concerns can also be raised with the police who can make a referral to Children's Services.

For information on what happens if concerns are reported to Children's Services, please see our page on Child Protection - Referral, assessment and outcomes. For more information on the types of orders Children's Services can get to protect a child see our page Child protection - Care proceedings and emergency orders.

What should I do if I know a child is at risk of harm but Children's Services will not investigate?

If a person is sure that a child is at risk but Children's Services will not act further, then that person can:

Remind Children's Services of their duty to act in such situations

Make a complaint to the Children's Director of the Children's Services department

Contact the NSPCC and ask them to make a referral

Report the family again to Children's Services.

If Children's Services suspect my child has been abused, and come to see me, do I have to speak to them?

A parent does not have to speak to Children's Services, but it is important to be co-operative. If a parent refuses to cooperate with Children's Services, they are likely to take further action. If a referral about suspected abuse has been made, Children's Services cannot ignore the allegations. They must ensure that the child is safe and is not suffering significant harm.

If Children's Services want my child to have a medical examination, do I have to agree?

Children's Services cannot insist that a child has a medical examination without a Court Order or parental consent. If a parent is not happy about Children's Services taking their child to a doctor, it is possible to arrange for their own GP to conduct a medical examination. It is recommended that the parent agrees to cooperate with a medical examination as refusal could lead to proceedings in court.

For further information please see our pages on Child Protection - Referral, assessment and outcomes and on Child Protection Case Conferences and Child Protection Plans.

For additional information on the types of orders Children's Services can get to protect a child, see our page Child protection - proceedings and orders.

Going further:

If you wish to initiate a complaint against Children's Services, detailed information can be found in our How-to Guide . (Please note that a fee is charged for this service).

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This page explains the law on child abuse, including the different forms of abuse and what to do if you are concerned about a child. If you think a child is in immediate danger call the police on 999 or the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 There are several different forms of child abuse which can cause significant harm to a child.

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Although Maternity Services have specific responsibilities, all professionals have a role in identifying and assessing families in need of additional support or where there are safeguarding concerns.