Neglect means not looking after a child or a young person properly

Neglect can include not providing enough food, warmth and decent living conditions

Everyone has a right to these basic things in life. Adults who are responsible for you can be prosecuted if they don't look after you correctly.

If you are made to sleep somewhere that is unpleasant or you are not given enough food to keep you healthy this may be neglect. If you are under 16 and you are left alone for long periods, like a week without proper arrangements being made for someone to look after you, this is also neglect. If you think you are not being cared for properly you should tell an adult you trust or look at the Related services and External links section for further information.