Health guidelines for child abuse

The new guidelines will help tackle child abuse

Local health officials have underlined their commitment to ensuring NHS staff have the training necessary to identify signs of child abuse and neglect.

A document has been published outlining steps being taken by the health board to protect youngsters who are at risk.

NHS Dumfries and Galloway said child protection remained one of their highest priorities.

A staff training strategy will ensure employees know how to act if they suspect a youngster is being abused.

A paper outlining the local health board's commitment to child welfare has been drawn up by Director of Public Health Dr Derek Cox.