POLICE have responded to concerns raised by neighbours and social media readers following publication of pictures and comments about a child in Tilbury who they feared were being put at risk by a mother.

Thurrock Nub News was alerted to the issue and has co-ordinated with Thurrock Council and Essex Police to follow up those concerns. It now appears the comments were malicious.

Today (Monday, 27 April) the police have issued the following statement: "We are investigating reports of harassment and malicious communications.

"It follows allegations of child cruelty related to images posted on social media.

"We carried out enquiries and specially trained officers have seen the children. We are satisfied they are safe and well and we have worked closely with local authority social services to ensure appropriate safeguarding is in place for those involved.

"Enquiries are ongoing into the origin of the images, which being treated as malicious."

"Anyone with information should contact the Thurrock child abuse investigation team on 101 quoting reference 42/58046/20.

Thurrock Council, which has confirmed it too has investigated the allegations against the mother, has guidelines on what constitutes child abuse and what anyone concerned should do.

Abuse can take different forms. Common types of abuse are:

• physical abuse such as hitting, punching and burning
• emotional abuse can mean constantly threatening or putting a child or young person down so that they feel unloved and worthless
• sexual abuse such as forcing or persuading a child or young person to take part in any kind of sexual activity. It can include inappropriate touching, kissing or sexual intercourse. It can also involve looking at, or being involved in pornographic material or videos
• neglect - not providing enough food, clothing, shelter, medical care or education. It can also mean leaving a child alone and at risk