Abuse
Growing up for most people is a very exciting time. Most children and young people have loving and caring adults in their lives who help them develop into happy healthy adults.
However, children and young people who suffer from abuse and or neglect the experience can be very different.
Abuse can take many forms and can happen only once or many times. It can happen to both boys and girls and at any age.
Types of abuse include physical, sexual and emotional abuse. Neglect refers to situations where parents or guardians do not provide children or young people with the proper food, warmth, shelter, clothing, care and protection.
The affects of any such abuse or neglect can impact on both mental and physical health.
It is important to remember that any form of abuse or neglect is not acceptable and no-one has the right to hurt you or make you do anything that feels wrong.
If you or someone you know has been abused in anyway the most important thing is to talk to someone about it. Don’t keep it to yourself.
Talk to someone you can trust about what is happening. There are people who can help you. For further information and sources of help and support contact:
NSPCC/ChildLine
Tel: 0800 1111
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk