What Can I Do?

If it's an Emergency

If it’s an emergency and you suspect a child is at serious risk, or a crime against a child has been committed this must be reported.

IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 111

When it's not an Emergency

Taking action to protect a child doesn't always mean extreme measures. There are lots of things you can do which may help to prevent abuse even occurring or stop it very early.

1.   STEP UP - Do something personally to help

• Learn to recognise the signs
• Provide a listening ear
• Offer help or babysit for a stressed parent
• Give helpful or supportive information
• Explain that violence is not OK
• Talk it over with an experienced person
• To learn how to prevent harm to children, contact Child Matters 07 838 3370.
• To talk over your concerns confidentially you can call CYF for advice on 0508 326 459

2.   STEP OUT – Look for community support for the family

• Connect the family or child with local community agencies
• Learn more about child abuse and how to prevent it
• There are lots of agencies that can help families:
  • Barnardos for support for families
  • Parentline for parenting services and programmes
  • Family Start for support for young families
  • For a full list of agencies see the family services directory

3.   SPEAK UP - Report your concerns if...

You are still concerned about the safety of the child, or if
Steps 1 and 2 are not appropriate in your situation

• Call Child Youth and Family 0508 326 459, or
• Call the NZ Police Local Branch Phone No.