Neglect

Neglect can be defined as a persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs which is likely to result in the serious harm of the child’s health or development.

None of the signs outlined below would indicate for certain that a child is being neglected but children who are persistently and severely neglected may be in danger. Some parents/carers simply need more resources and support to properly care for their children, but some have more complex problems. In both cases, they need help from professionals.

Neglect may occur during pregnancy as a result of maternal substance abuse. Once a child is born, neglect may involve a parent or carer failing to:

Provide adequate food, clothing and shelter (including exclusion from home or abandonment)
Protect a child from physical and emotional harm or danger
Ensure adequate supervision (including the use of inadequate caregivers)
Ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment

It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to, a child’s basic emotional needs.

Whilst the statutory definition refers to ‘persistent failure to meet needs’, neglect can build steadily over a long period of time or may happen over a series of occasions. Neglect can be intentional or unintentional.

Neglect can have a debilitating and long-lasting effect on a child’s physical wellbeing, and on their mental, emotional and behavioural development. In some cases, the effects can cause permanent disabilities and in severe cases, death.

The NSPCC identifies 4 broad types of neglect:

Physical neglect

A child's basic needs, such as food, clothing or shelter, are not met or they aren't properly supervised or kept safe.

Educational neglect

A parent doesn't ensure their child is given an education.

Emotional neglect

A child doesn't get the nurture and stimulation they need. This could be through ignoring, humiliating, intimidating or isolating them.

Medical neglect

A child isn't given proper health care. This includes dental care and refusing or ignoring medical recommendations.

Find out more (nspcc.org.uk)

Signs and Indicators

Signs that a child could be suffering neglect include:

Living in an inadequate home environment
Being left alone for a long time
Being persistently ignored by parents/carers
Unwashed, ill-fitting or inadequate clothing, such as not having a coat in winter
Delayed development
Taking on the role of carer for other family members
Seem hungry or turn up to school without having breakfast

Physical effects of neglect may include:

Faltering weight or growth and not reaching developmental milestones
Poor muscle tone, prominent joints, tiredness
Poor skin, untreated nappy rash, sores, flea bites
Thin or swollen tummy
Poor hygiene, like being dirty or smelly
Untreated health problems such as dental issues

Emotional and behavioural effects may include:

Difficulties with schoolwork and poor concentration
Missing school
Being anxious about or avoiding people
Difficulty making friends
Being withdrawn
Anti-social behaviour
Drug or alcohol misuse

Interactive Neglect Indicator Chart

Identifying neglect can be especially difficult for professionals, as there is rarely a single, clear incident that raises concerns. More often, it is the accumulation of various concerns over time that, when viewed collectively, suggest that a child may be in need or at risk.

The interactive Guide to Recognising Neglect in Children provides practitioners with an overview of what level of support and intervention a family might need. It should not be used as a tick-box exercise but rather as a guide to assist professionals in their decision-making, including further assessment, referral to other services and understanding when higher levels of intervention might be required.

Interactive Neglect Indicator Chart (hampshirescp.org.uk)

PDF version - Neglect Indicator Chart

Further resources, information and advice

Neglect Toolkit

This toolkit supports frontline professionals and managers who work with children and families to identify and respond to neglect. It includes practical resources to help develop a shared understanding of neglect and its impact on children. Resources such as the Day in My Life tools help practitioners gain insight into a child’s daily experiences and better understand their lived reality.

Neglect Toolkit (hampshirescp.org.uk)

Understanding Unidentified Adults Toolkit

Unidentified adults, sometimes referred to as hidden, connected or unseen adults, can have a significant impact on a child's safety and wellbeing. This toolkit has been developed to help practitioners identify, understand and assess all adults who play a role in a child's life, whether they live in the household or have regular contact with the child. Drawing on learning from local and national reviews, the toolkit provides practical tools and guidance to strengthen assessment and safeguarding practice.

Understanding Unidentified Adults Toolkit (hampshirescp.org.uk)

Safeguarding Adolescents Toolkit

Adolescence can be a challenging and vulnerable time, with increased risks that can affect a young person's safety and wellbeing. The Safeguarding Adolescents Toolkit has been developed to help professionals recognise these risks early and provide effective support and intervention. Aligned with the Safeguarding Adolescents Strategy, it offers practical guidance and resources to strengthen safeguarding practice and improve outcomes for young people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Safeguarding Adolescents Toolkit (hampshirescp.org.uk)

Neglect

Neglect can be defined as a persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs which is likely to result in the serious harm of the child’s health or development.

The NSPCC identifies 4 broad types of neglect:

Physical neglect

Educational neglect

Emotional neglect

Medical neglect

Signs and Indicators

Signs that a child could be suffering neglect include:

Physical effects of neglect may include:

Emotional and behavioural effects may include:

Interactive Neglect Indicator Chart

Further resources, information and advice

Neglect Toolkit

Understanding Unidentified Adults Toolkit

Safeguarding Adolescents Toolkit

HIPS Procedures

Organisations that can help

Resource Library

Training

Home

Practitioners

Parents & Carers

Children & Young People

Voluntary & Community