What if I am not sure whether the disclosure is serious enough to report?

If you are unsure, call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. They are trained to help you assess the situation and will advise you on whether a report to police or social services is appropriate. It is always better to seek advice than to stay silent.

What if my child asked me not to tell anyone?

Children often ask for secrecy because they fear the consequences of disclosure. Explain gently that some things are too important to keep between just the two of you, and that you need to make sure they are safe. Reassure them that you will only tell people who can help, and that you will keep them informed about what is happening.

Should I take my child to the GP?

If the disclosure involves physical or sexual abuse, consult the NSPCC or police before seeking medical attention — they may advise a specialist examination. For emotional distress, your GP can refer your child to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) for professional support.

Important

My Child Has Disclosed Something Worrying

Your child has told you something that concerns you about their online experiences. This could be a disclosure of abuse, exploitation, inappropriate contact, exposure to harmful content, or any other situation where they may have been harmed or are at risk.

When a child discloses something worrying, it is a moment of immense trust. How you respond in the next few minutes can make the difference between a child who continues to confide in you and one who shuts down. Your instinct may be to react with shock, anger, or urgency — but the most helpful thing you can do is listen, believe, and respond calmly. You do not need to have all the answers right now.

What to do now

Listen Without Interrupting

Let your child speak at their own pace. Do not finish their sentences or guess what happened. Use encouraging nods and brief affirmations like 'I hear you' or 'Go on'. Maintain open, relaxed body language.

✗ Do not: Do not express shock, disgust, or anger — even if you feel it. Your facial expressions and tone matter enormously right now.

Believe and Validate

Tell your child clearly: 'I believe you. Thank you for telling me. This is not your fault.' Children rarely make up disclosures about abuse or harmful experiences, and being believed is critical to their recovery.

Do Not Investigate

Ask only open, clarifying questions if needed: 'Can you tell me a little more about what happened?' Do not probe for details, ask leading questions, or try to build a case. Professional investigators are trained for this — your role is to listen and support.

Record What Was Said

As soon as possible after the conversation, write down exactly what your child said — in their own words, not your interpretation. Note the date, time, and setting. This record may be important later.

Report to the Appropriate Authority

Depending on the nature of the disclosure, contact the NSPCC helpline, CEOP, or the police. If your child is in immediate danger, call 999. If a professional (teacher, doctor) needs to know, inform them. You are not expected to handle this alone.

What not to do

✗Do not promise to keep it a secret. You may need to involve professionals to keep your child safe. Instead, say 'I might need to talk to someone who can help us, but I will always keep you informed.'
✗Do not confront the person your child has disclosed about — this could put your child at further risk and compromise any investigation.
✗Do not ask your child to repeat their disclosure multiple times — this can be re-traumatising. Record it once and share your notes with professionals.
✗Do not blame yourself. Perpetrators of abuse are skilled at concealing their behaviour.

Preserving evidence

Why this matters

If you need to report to authorities or a platform, evidence can help.

•Write down your child's exact words as soon as possible after the disclosure. Use their language, not adult interpretations.
•If the disclosure involves online activity, do not touch the device. Note what platform or app was mentioned and preserve the device for professional examination if needed.
•Keep your notes in a safe place. They may be requested by police or social services.

How to talk to your child

✓Repeat reassuring phrases: 'You did the right thing by telling me', 'I believe you', 'This is not your fault', and 'I am going to help you.'
✓Let your child know what will happen next in simple, honest terms. Children fear the unknown, and surprises can feel like further loss of control.
✓In the days that follow, maintain normal routines as much as possible. Your child needs stability and normality alongside professional support.