Weather disruption
Winter weather is causing disruption to services in some parts of the county. Find out what services may be affected in your area.
If you’re worried about a child, want to report abuse or aren’t sure what to do call customer services on: 01305 221000.
In an emergency, or if you believe a child is at immediate danger or risk of harm, call the police on 999.
The UK takes the welfare of all children very seriously. If you are worried about your child or another child, you can contact:
- National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) on: 0808 800 5000. You can contact them outside of these hours by email to help@nspcc.org.uk. It’s free and you don’t have to say who you are
- Childline on 0800 1111
- if you think that a child is at immediate risk of harm, call the Police on 999 or 112
Domestic abuse is a serious crime in the UK. Anyone who is violent or abusive towards their partner, spouse, or another family member, whether they are a man or a woman, married or living together, or separated can be prosecuted.
Domestic abuse includes a wide range of behaviours. It is not limited to physical violence. It can include:
- emotional
- psychological
- controlling, or coercive behaviour
- sexual and/or economic abuse
For further information and help:
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: freephone 24-hour call: 0808 2000 247
- online chat service (Monday to Friday from 3pm to 10pm)
- Refuge
- Women's Aid
- GOV.UK
- Citizens Advice
The Metropolitan Police is supporting the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation of:
- war crimes
- genocide
- crimes against humanity in Ukraine
You can report any crimes you experienced or witnessed to their War Crimes Team.
Our Dorset Family Information Service is a free, impartial information service. It is for parents and carers of children and young people up to 19 years, or 25 years for those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND).
We have children’s centres and hubs across Dorset. They provide a range of free activities and support events for children and families. You can call the service on telephone: 01305 221066.
We are responsible for social care for adults, children, and families in the county. Services include safeguarding, homecare and disability or family support.