What is child abuse?

The NSPCC defines child abuse as:

‘Child abuse is when a child is intentionally harmed by an adult or another child – it can be over a period of time but can also be a one-off action. It can be physical, sexual or emotional and it can happen in person or online. It can also be a lack of love, care and attention – this is neglect.’

Physical Abuse

When an adult deliberately hurts a child, such as hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, drowning or suffocating.

Emotional/Psychological Abuse

Is the continual emotional mistreatment of a child, which can include deliberately trying to scare, humiliate, isolate or ignore a child.

Sexual Abuse

Forcing or coercing a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening.  Sexual abuse includes a range of different acts and behaviours.

Neglect 

When a child is not being looked after properly; for example, not getting enough to eat, or being left alone in dangerous situations.