The maltreatment of children in the UK remains an extensive problem and recent high profile cases have highlighted our responsibility to protect these children. Children will have contact with health and social professionals during their childhood and it is essential that GPs are alert to the possibility of child abuse. This article will describe important legislation to be aware of, the different types of abuse, what constitutes ‘safeguarding’, symptoms and signs to look out for in accordance with recent National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance and what action to take if child maltreatment is suspected.
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