A CAMPAIGN has been launched to advise residents to to report signs of abuse and neglect.

Wigan Safeguarding Children Board and Wigan Safeguarding Adult Board have teamed up to introduce the Together Against Abuse scheme to the borough.

It will encourage people to look out for signs and symptoms of the types of abuse to recognise when they or someone they know might need support.

Partners in the scheme include Leigh Centurions, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Wigan Council and Greater Manchester Police.

The independent chair of both safeguarding boards, Dr Paul Kingston, said: “At a time when there are revelations about abuse and neglect at the forefront of society; this campaign is extremely relevant.

“Safeguarding is not solely the domain of professionals, it is everyone’s business.

“This campaign will inform the public what they can do to stay vigilant, and to report any concerns that they have so that individuals and families feel safe and are safe.”

Due to the complex nature of the subject, abuse and neglect often goes unnoticed and undetected with people frequently reluctant or unable to report cases.

This can lead to long-lasting negative impacts having on people’s lives.

There are many forms that abuse can take.

It could be physical, psychological, domestic or financial.

There could also be sexual exploitation and neglect including self-neglect and discrimination.

As part of Wigan Council’s The Deal scheme, residents are being asked to be the “eyes and ears” in their community and to report concerns they have about children or adults.

The safeguarding board partners will tell communities about this when they tour the borough on the local authority’s “Deal Bus” during the summer.

To report a safeguarding concern visit Wigan Council’s initial assessment teams.

The contact number for children and young people is 01942 828300 and adults is 01942 828777.

To get in touch with Greater Manchester Police call 0161 8725050 or 999 in an emergency.

The free 24-hour helpline for National Domestic Abuse is 0808 2000247.

For more information about the scheme visit wigan.gov.uk/togetheragainstabuse.