Protecting babies

Baby safety - what you should know

Babies should always be handled gently, and it is never okay to shake a baby - this can cause serious injury.
Health professionals will always be curious about the safety of babies and will ask questions and raise concerns where appropriate.
If a young baby has an unexplained mark on their skin, it is important that this is looked at by a health professional.
It is not just the role of parents and carers to keep babies safe - everyone who comes into contact with babies and their families should play their part. You may spot something that worries you or puts a baby at risk and be able to prevent them from having an accident or being hurt. It is important that we work together to protect babies from abuse and neglect by trusting our instincts and sharing our concerns.
It's important to supervise when older siblings interact with babies, and to be realistic about how much involvement they should have. Explain how to be gentle and include them in age-appropriate care, such as fetching nappies or reading to their baby sibling.

The Safeguarding People team safeguards and promotes the health and welfare of all children and young people.

If you have concerns about a baby being abused or neglected, this should be reported.

If you think that a baby is being abused or neglected in:

Peterborough: 01733 864170 (9am to 5pm Monday to Friday)
Cambridgeshire: 0345 045 5203 (8am to 6pm Monday to Friday)
Outside office hours, at weekends and on public holidays contact the emergency duty team on 01733 234724
Email: referralcentre.children@cambridgeshire.gov.uk

As a member of the public, you do not have to give your name and your conversation will be treated confidentially.

If you have any questions or concerns about your baby's safety, a health professional in our team will be able to offer advice and support.

You can Call Us on 0300 029 50 50 or Text Us on 07520 649887 to start a conversation.

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays).

If the baby is in immediate danger, call 999 and speak to the police.