The NSPCC is calling on community groups in Hammersmith and Fulham to host a workshop to help people spot the signs of neglect. 

The free information sessions form part of a six-month zero tolerance campaign which was launched last month in partnership with the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham Council, Westminster City Council and Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea with support from the Local Children’s Safeguarding Board. 

As well as educating residents about neglect it also calls on them to contact the NSPCC’s helpline - 0808 800 5000 - in confidence if they have any concerns about a child.

Neglect is the ongoing failure to meet a child’s basic needs such as feeding them and clothing them. It is the most common form of child abuse with one in ten children experiencing it. 

Emma Motherwell, NSPCC Local Campaigns Manager, said: “Neglect can happen in any family regardless of background. Sometimes this is because they don't have the skills or support needed, and sometimes it's due to other problems such as mental health issues, drug and alcohol problems or poverty.

“Neglect changes childhoods but the NSPCC knows that by providing the right help at the right time they can recover. That’s why it’s so important to educate people about the signs to look out for so we can get help for children before it has a lasting impact. 

“At the end of the day we all have a responsibility to help safeguard children from all forms of abuse including neglect.”

There are four types of neglect:
• Physical neglect - Failing to provide for a child’s basic needs such as food, clothing or shelter. Failing to adequately supervise a child, or keep them safe.
• Educational neglect - Failing to ensure a child receives an education.
• Emotional neglect - Failing to meet a child’s needs for nurture and stimulation, perhaps by ignoring, humiliating, intimidating or isolating them. 
• Medical neglect - Failing to provide appropriate health care, including dental care and refusal of care or ignoring medical recommendations.

Cllr Sue Fennimore, H & F Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, said: “The vital work of the NSPCC is changing young lives for the better every day but they can’t do this unless they know who needs help. 

“I encourage all community groups to attend these free courses. Just a few hours of your time could make all the difference.” 

Any local groups interested in hosting one of these free information sessions should contact emma.motherwell@nspcc.org.uk to find out more.