Child abuse is not acceptable

Child abuse is not just sexual, it can also apply when a parent, or another adult, is violent towards you. It may only happen when that adult is angry or drunk, but that's no excuse. It's wrong to hurt someone, no matter what.

If the adults who live with you don't give you proper food or clothing, or don't look after you when you're ill, this is called neglect and it's against the law.

It doesn't mean you're being neglected if you don't get the most expensive pair of new trainers or designer clothes every time you ask for them.

 

Getting help

If you're being abused, it's important to know two things:

• It's not your fault
• It can be stopped.

The first step to getting the abuse stopped is to tell an adult that you trust. Telling someone that you're being abused can feel really scary, but it means you won't have to deal with it on your own any more.

Remember - it's OK to tell someone, even if you've been told to keep it a secret. You won't get into trouble. It's the other person who's in the wrong.

If you decide to tell a teacher or a police officer, then it's their job to take you seriously. If you tell someone else and they don't believe you, or they can't help you, don't give up. Try again or choose someone else.

Remember

If you are being abused or know a member of your family is being abused, it can leave you feeling pretty mixed up. You might feel scared, stressed, angry or even guilty.

The most important thing to remember is that it's not your fault.

Sometimes, it helps to talk about how you're feeling. If you think it would be easier to talk to someone you don't know, there are websites you can visit and talk safely or you can call charities like Childline that specialise in providing you with the necessary help and support.

If you're in danger and you need help straight away, find a safe place and call 999. If you're not in danger right now, but you want to talk to the police, you can speak to an officer at your local police station.