Call to look out for signs of abuse during special Safeguarding Week

A series of events are being held in South Tyneside next week to raise awareness of safeguarding.

The move is part of Safeguarding Week which runs from October 15 to 19.

South Tyneside Safeguarding Children Board and the Safeguarding Adults Board are arranging a range of free activities to highlight the issue.

Coun Tracey Dixon, lead member for independence and wellbeing, said: “Everyone has the right to live a life that is free from abuse and neglect and we all have a role to play in making that happen.

“Protecting people at risk of abuse and neglect, whatever their age, is a core priority but we cannot do that alone. This week is aimed at raising awareness of the issue so that people can spot the signs of neglect and abuse and take action to stop it.”

People can find out more at Living Waters Church, St Jude’s Terrace in South Shields on Tuesday, October 16 between 1pm and 3pm.

There will be a session at Hebburn Central on Glen Street in Hebburn on Wednesday, October 17 between 1pm and 3pm.

While The Viking Centre, Bede Precinct in Jarrow, will be hosting an event on Thursday, October 18 between 1pm and 3pm.

Finally visitors to canteen at South Tyneside Hospital, Harton Lane, South Shields, will be able to find out more on Friday, 19 October between 11.30am and 1.30pm.

During the week, people will be encouraged to consider what safeguarding means to them. They can also receive information on how to seek help and support to report any concerns.

Councillor Moira Smith, Lead Member for Children, Families and Young People, said: “Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone. We need the public to be our eyes and ears and to have the confidence to report any concerns they have.

“It is only by working together that we can seek to put an end to abuse and neglect once and for all.”

People can attend as many sessions as they like - booking is not required.