South Craven people urged to be alert to signs of abuse

A North Yorkshire safeguarding conference was told that everyone had a part to play in tackling the issue.

The public and professionals alike should be vigilant, the event heard.

Among the speakers was Lorin LaFave, whose son Breck was killed after being groomed online.

She established a foundation to raise awareness of the dangers young people face on the internet.

Also at the event was County Councillor Michael Harrison, executive member for adult services and health integration, who said there were many signs of abuse.

"Sometimes they are not obvious or visible – especially where grooming is taking place – but someone may start to behave differently which could give cause for concern," he added.

"In other situations someone may be dirty or not dressed properly, have an injury that is difficult to explain, seem frightened around certain people or be unusually sad or withdrawn."

The gathering, in Harrogate, was held as part of National Safeguarding Week.

Another delegate, Councillor Carol Runciman, said: "The conference theme of Safeguarding is Everybody's Business was picked-up by all the speakers, highlighting that everyone has a role to play in raising concerns.

"The power and emotion of Lorin's talk left its mark on many people at the event."

For help and to report abuse concerns, people can contact the North Yorkshire Safeguarding Children Board at safeguardingchildren.co.uk/worried-about-child.