Physical Harm

This week, we spoke to children about physical harm – what it is and what children can do to get help if they’re worried about it.

In daily reviews and Friday’s safeguarding weekly theme session, we used the following information to talk to children about physical harm:

What is physical harm?

Physical harm, or abuse, is when some hurts or harms a child or young person on purpose. This includes:

• hitting with hands or objects
• slapping and punching
• kicking
• shaking
• throwing something at the child or young person

What can you do if you’re worried about physical harm? (if you think you have been physically harmed or if you are worried about someone else being physically harmed)

It is REALLY important to tell someone. You have the right to be safe, be heard and to get help when you need it. You can do this by:

• Talking to one of your 5 safe adults
• Talking to someone in the safeguarding team
• Write a note in your chatterbox
• Call childline 08001111

Advice for Parents and Carers

Physical chastisement is sometimes the reason for children being physically harmed. For advice on how to manage behaviour at home, without being physical with children, please follow the link below:

https://parents.actionforchildren.org.uk/feelings-behaviour/rules-rewards/smacking/

There are also a number of parenting courses available through Bristol City Council’s Children’s Services. For more information, please speak to a member of our safeguarding team.