INCREASINGLY sophisticated methods are being used to target children and vulnerable adults, a safeguarding conference has been told.

Unprecedented levels of vigilance are needed to combat the perpetrators and protect victims, according to the expert who organised the event, at Airedale Hospital.

The conference brought together multi-agency professionals who work with children and adults, to raise awareness of safeguarding issues within the district.

It highlighted how to recognise – and respond to – children and vulnerable adults suffering abuse or neglect.

"People are being targeted by ever-more sophisticated methods so it's increasingly important to be extra vigilant," said specialist safeguarding nurse, Debra Burgess.

"Often there is a critical window of opportunity for professionals and the public to act and highlight safeguarding concerns.

"Hopefully with early intervention and in particular, support for parents who are finding it difficult to care for their child, there can be a more positive outcome for children to lead happy and fulfilling lives.

"Remember, safeguarding children is everyone's responsibility."

The conference, the sixth of its kind to be staged at the Steeton hospital and one of a series of district-wide events marking Safeguarding Week, opened with a hard-hitting play about cyber-bullying performed by year-ten drama students from Guiseley School.

The play – written by the pupils – highlighted the impact of cyber-bullying on young people's emotional, psychological and physical health.

Dr Kate Ward – a consultant paediatrician – then presented The First 1001 Days, about the period during which the infant brain achieves its optimum development.

"Nurturing during this time enables babies to achieve the best start in life," she said.

The focus then switched to cyber-crime, with West Yorkshire Police detective inspector Vanessa Smith.

She said: "The computer is rapidly becoming the new crowbar – just another means by which to commit a crime," she said.

"Anyone who has a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or mobile device/phone could be at risk of being a victim.

"That's why it's imperative that all public sector workers, especially those working in hospitals and who engage with the public regularly, are aware of the vulnerabilities people face using digital devices."

* Anyone worried about a child's welfare is advised to contact their local children's social care service.

If yourself or someone you know is being abused, call 101. Anybody with information about a person who is being trafficked can ask for the relevant team or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For advice about combatting cyber-crime, visit westyorkshire.police.uk/BlockTheWebMonsters.

Guidance about dealing with bullying and cyber-bullying can be found at nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/child-abuse-and-neglect/bullying-and-cyberbullying.