Your Question
I’m really concerned about my granddaughter’s safety. I believe this is a safeguarding issue from all the phone calls throughout the night from her and then abusive and threatening messages her father sends me I’m just so worried.. what do I do?
Answer
Hello there.
Thank you for your question and sharing what has been going on, you are very welcome to Ask Robyn.
From your question it sounds like you have serious concerns for your granddaughter’s safety, as her father has been sending you abusive messages, and calls from your granddaughter during the night. We understand how distressing this could be for you and that you may be worried about what else is going on for your granddaughter.
Firstly, well done on reaching out to us, we know it’s not an easy thing to do. Your concern is understandable, and as you have said, it sounds like it could be a safeguarding issue.
We would encourage you to contact Tusla, The Child and Family Agency. Here is some more information on how and why you would report to Tusla www.tusla.ie/children-first/parents-and-guardians/how-do-i-report-a-concern-about-a-child/
You can contact a social worker in Tusla in person, by telephone or in writing to the local office where the child lives. Here is a list of contact details for each area of the country www.tusla.ie/children-first/contact-a-social-worker3/
You will be asked for your granddaughter’s information and to explain the risk to him. There are more details about this in the above article.
Your granddaughter has the right to support and to be safe. From your question you feel she is not safe and would like to get her some help. If you believe your granddaughter is in immediate danger, we advise you to contact the Gardaí at 999 or 112, or your granddaughter’s local Garda station.
For supporting yourself you may find it beneficial to chat to a trusted friend or close family member about how you are feeling and about what is going on. ISPCC’s Support Line is available and can be contacted by email to [email protected] or by phone from Monday to Friday 9am – 1pm on 01 522 4300
I’m not sure from your question how old your granddaughter is but if he would like to chat about what’s going on for her she can contact Childline by phone on 1800 66 66 66 or through our web chat on www.childline.ie. Childline services are free, confidential, and available 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Thank you for reaching out to us.
Take care,
Robyn
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