This NSPCC Learning video features Fiona Becker describing signs and indicators that may suggest a child is being abused, neglected or harmed. Signs vary with the type of harm, the child’s age and development, and whether the child has a disability.

The video also highlights that concerns can come from the behaviour or attitude of adults, carers, residential staff, activity leaders, peers, family members or local networks, not only from the child.

Examples include sudden aggression, challenging behaviour, withdrawal, clinginess, sleep problems, bedwetting, ill-fitting or dirty clothes, poor hygiene, hunger, unexplained avoidance of particular people, being left alone with unsuitable carers or strangers, developmental delays, missing education, reluctance to go home, injuries that do not fit the explanation, early alcohol use, anxiety about siblings, running away, flinching, self-harm, suicidal behaviour and excessive caring responsibilities.

This Leicestershire Police video uses a dramatisation to show how children affected by criminal exploitation may hint at danger while adults miss the meaning. Young people describe holding drugs, moving crack around a village, carrying weapons, owing money and facing pressure from older people, while adults respond to the surface of the conversation rather than the risk.

The examples show that children do not always see themselves as victims and may not behave like victims. Control can be linked to grooming, debt, fear, new belongings, increased messages and calls, late returns, weapons and pressure to keep offending.

The closing message is to listen for changes in behaviour and take signs seriously before the danger escalates.