People living in Edinburgh are being encouraged to Speak up Speak out about harm. The campaign is reaching out to anyone being harmed to come forward for help or for others to report concerns about someone they know.
Abuse can be physical, psychological or be in the form of neglect. It can be domestic abuse or families suffering through someone’s drug or alcohol problems. It can happen regardless of age, gender or the colour of their skin. It can happen anywhere and be caused by friends, relatives, colleagues or strangers. By encouraging people to be open about their concerns and talk to care professionals, it is hoped that more adults and children can be protected from harm.
The campaign aims to ease fears that involving the authorities will make things worse. The worst of these fears are of splitting up families or prosecution. That may happen in the most severe of cases but in most cases the Council and the many organisations it works with will ease the situation by providing practical support.
You can pick a leaflet up from community venues, voluntary organisations, doctor and dentist surgeries and in hospitals. You can also find out more at www.edinburgh.gov.uk/speakupspeakout
If you are being harmed or if you think you know someone who is, then the authorities urge you to speak up.
Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.
