Call to look out for at-risk children

As local schools begin the countdown to the summer holidays, Angus residents have been urged to join an Eyes Open campaign being spearheaded by child protection committees across the country.

The bodies hope the initiative will raise awareness that members of the public can play an important role to keep children safe from harm in the holidays.

Angus Child Protection Committee chairwoman Christine Knight said: “Angus children are about to be away from the usual school routine for a few weeks. For most children this is a time of year filled with fun and free time, but for some families the summer holidays is a time of increased stress and pressure.

“In some cases, children may not be supervised or cared for adequately; others might even experience neglect.”

She added: “By keeping our eyes open and our other senses tuned in, we might spot the telltale signs that a child is at risk. These signs include seeing children wandering about at all times of day and night, children who appear unfed, unsupervised children or whose parents do not appear to be managing to care for them safely.

“However, spotting the signs isn’t enough. If something doesn’t seem quite right for a child, or a family of children, it’s better to say something than do nothing.”

Call the council ACCESSLINE on 0345 277 7778.