Struggling parents urged to seek help

Child protection experts have launched a drive to encourage struggling parents to seek help.

The Under Pressure: Understanding Child Neglect campaign comes as more families buckle under the continuing stress of the pandemic and economic strain from the rising cost of living.

Child Protection Committees Scotland (CPCS), an organisation bringing together professionals from child welfare organisations, launched the campaign to recognise that challenging conditions can make it difficult for some parents to cope, putting children at risk of neglect.

CPCS chair Samara Shah said: “The vast majority of parents and carers try their best to bring up their children as well as they can but as anyone who has ever brought up children knows, it’s a very, very hard job.

“Families face struggles which can make it difficult to manage as well as they might want to, and times are tough. Not having much money can mean it’s hard to provide enough food, heating and things like toiletries, let alone extras or treats.

“All children need to feel safe and secure but some parents are juggling two or more jobs and can’t easily get childcare, and might feel they have no choice but to leave their kids home alone when they go out.

“Every child needs love and affection too but if you’re having problems coping with life, or are struggling with your own mental health, you might overlook your children’s needs. Or if you didn’t have positive experiences yourself as a child, you might not know what to do for the best for your own kids.”

Shah urged under-pressure parents to seek help and said there were many people who could offer support: “We know many parents and carers are under a great deal of pressure just now but please, rather than struggle on alone, remember that it’s OK to ask for help.

“Ask a friend, a member of the family or someone else you trust, if you feel you’re not managing to look after your children as well as you’d like to. There are also lots of family support groups and charities who can help you, and there are national helplines and plenty of online sites where you can get practical parenting advice.”

Shah also urged people to report child welfare concerns. She said: “You shouldn’t ignore signs that something is wrong for a child. Get help and support for that child by contacting your council’s social work department. Or if you think a child is in immediate danger, call the police right away.”