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Campaign launched to prevent child neglect

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NSPCC Scotland has partnered with Edinburgh City Council for the initiative.

Parents in Edinburgh struggling to care for their children are being urged to seek support through a new campaign.

All of Us provides advice, resources and guides to families who are experiencing difficulties or who have concerns about children.

The campaign, launched by NSPCC Scotland and Edinburgh City Council, also raises awareness among communities and professionals about the early signs of child neglect and how to help families who are struggling.

NSPCC Scotland said around a third of calls to its helpline are from people concerned a child might be experiencing neglect, defined as when a young person’s basic needs are not being met.

Neglect can be caused by issues such as financial difficulties, mental health issues and lack of support. By partnering with the council, NSPCC Scotland hopes to reach struggling parents and carers before they reach crisis point.

Carla Malseed, the charity’s local campaigns manager, said: “Looking after a child can be challenging for all parents and carers at times, and it is so important that people feel they can seek support and know where to turn for help.

“The NSPCC Helpline is there for anyone who wants advice or knows a family that needs support.”

The first phase of the campaign, which launches this week, consists of a series of free family events across the city, with activities for children and information for parents and carers about where to find support and advice.

From February, workshops will be held with professionals and volunteers who work with children, as well as with various community groups.

Jackie Irvine, chair of the Edinburgh Child Protection Committee, said: “This campaign is a first for Scotland and highlights the very real issues around child neglect. Many families may not be aware that there’s a wide range of support and we also need to raise awareness among communities and professionals about the signs of child neglect.

“We’ve got four free drop-in events across the city over the coming weeks where families can find out more about what local support is available and I would urge as many people as possible to come along.”