When you contact a professional about your concern they will, unless the child is in immediate danger, make some enquiries before taking action. They will check whether the child is known and what information is held. All the information you gave will be treated seriously and acted upon.

This may be an immediate action or a more planned response. Following enquiries professionals may, for example:

• take immediate action to secure the safety of the child;
• provide support, help or advice to the family (for example help with childcare) and get people involved who will be able help the child, young person and family sort out the issues that led to the problem in the first place,
• make a referral to the appropriate legal system

make a note of the concern but take no further action at this time.