"I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me."
(Matthew 25:35-36)
There are different kinds of abuse, but it's always about having power and control over you. You do not have to wait for an emergency situation to find help. If you are being abused, it's important to tell someone and remember you're not alone. The first step in escaping an abusive situation is realising that you're not alone and it's not your fault.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger
If you have information about a safeguarding situation where a child or adult is in immediate danger, or requires immediate medical attention, call emergency services on 999.
If there is no risk of immediate harm
If you do not think there is a risk of immediate harm, you must speak to an official about your concern as soon as possible. We encourage you to contact the Police by calling 101.
If you think that a child is at risk of being harmed or neglected you can also contact Social Care by, email:mash@bracknell-forest.gov.uk, phone:01344 352005. They will keep your name confidential if you wish.
Charities and voluntary organisations provide valuable support and advice on their websites and via their helplines:
- NSPCC Child Protection Helpline if you’re worried about a child.: 0808 800 5000
- Childline if you’re a child or young person: 0800 1111
- National Domestic Violence Helpline if you’re experiencing domestic abuse.: 0808 2000 247
- Samaritans if you feel you are struggling to cope and need someone to talk to: 116 123
- Action on Elder Abuse: 080 8808 8141 (free phone Monday to Friday 9- 5pm)
