Neglect is the ongoing and persistent failure to meet a child’s basic needs and is the most common form of child abuse. The child might be left hungry or dirty, or without proper clothing, shelter, supervision or health care. This can put children and young people in danger. And it can also have long term effects on their physical and mental wellbeing.

Types of neglect

Neglect can take many forms which can make it hard to spot, but broadly speaking, there are 4 types of neglect.

• Physical neglect
  The child’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, or shelter are not met, or they aren’t properly supervised or kept safe.
• Educational neglect
  The parent fails to ensure their child is given an education.
• Emotional neglect
  The child is deprived of the care, nurture, and stimulation they need. This could be through ignoring, humiliating, intimidating or isolating them.
• Medical neglect
  The child is not given access to appropriate health care, including dental care, and refusing or ignoring medical needs or recommendations.