I am a parent / carer / guardian looking for support

Being a parent or carer isn't always easy, and we all need a bit of support from time to time. At times, there are situations and circumstances that can significantly impact a parent's ability to care for their child.  These might include:- 

• lack of family or social support
• poverty
• trauma
• having had poor experiences of being parented yourself
• living with domestic abuse
• significant mental health concerns
• substance misuse e.g. drugs, alcohol 

For advice and guidance you could speak to a health visitor, teacher, nursery worker or your family doctor. All of these people can help you to find the support you need to take care of your child. Alternativley Parent Line Scotland, a free telephone helpline for anyone caring for children in Scotland, on 0808 800 2222.

Services, like health, education or voluntary organisations can offer support to help you care for your child, this could be enough support to help you out of a situation.    However, at times parents can struggle so much that professionals are worried that a child is not safe.  When professionals have serious concerns about the safety of children and young people, they will request that an Inter Agency Referral Discussion takes place.   A  Child Protection Investigation may be recomended from this if the people in your child's life think they might be at risk of significant harm or have experienced harm already.

You can find out more about the Listen Up, Speak Up campaign on the NSPCC website. You can also complete the 10 minute digital training.