Plumbers, tradesmen and builders in Bucks are being urged to sign up to new NSPCC training to help them spot children at risk of abuse and neglect.

The training – called ‘It’s Your Call’ – aims to give local businesses and traders who visit customers’ help to recognise possible signs of child abuse.

The safeguarding training covers all types of abuse and provides them with guidance on who to tell if they have concerns about the wellbeing of a child they come across while working in or around customers’ homes.

Last year, the NSPCC’s helpline referred 406 calls and emails to local agencies like the police or children’s services in Bucks - the majority of which were from people concerned a child was being neglected.

NSPCC head of helplines John Cameron said: “Professionals who come into contact with people and their homes through their jobs, may see or hear things that others may not.

“While it is not their job to decide if what they have seen is abuse or not, it is their responsibility to talk to someone to discuss their concerns.

“Some may have already come across signs of child abuse or neglect and not known what to do about it.

“This course is designed to equip them with the knowledge and confidence to help them trust their instinct and report their concerns.

“By being prepared and knowing what steps to take they can make a real difference to a child’s safety and wellbeing.”

For more information about ‘It’s Your Call’ visit www.nspcc.org.uk/itsyourcall, email elearning@nspcc.org.uk or call 0808 800 5000.