Frequently Asked Questions

There is no specific minimum age of a babysitter (although 14 is often quoted). Parents or carers must adopt a common sense policy, with the babysitter being able to look after both him/herself and the child. Having said that, under the Children and Young Persons (Scotland) Act 1937 it is an offence for anyone over the age of 16, who has responsibility for a child under that age to willfully assault, ill-treat, neglect, abandon or expose the child. This may include bullying, frightening or causing suffering or injury to the child's health.

There are no legal guidelines regarding the age at which a child can be left at home alone. The rule of thumb is that the child should be able to look after him/herself. Again, the common sense rule applies.

No child may be employed under 14 years of age. The hours that a child under the age of 16 can work are restricted. He or she should not work:

• before the close of school hours on school days
• before 7 o'clock in the morning (any day)
• after 7 o'clock in the evening (any day)
• for more than 2 hours on any school day
• for more than 2 hours on any Sunday

He or she should not be required to lift, carry or move anything so heavy that it is likely to cause injury.

Further information can be obtained from your local school or the education department at the council.

It is everybody's business to protect children and young people from harm. If you have concerns it is important to report what is worrying you without delay. Do not think that it is none of your business or expect someone else to have noticed and reported your suspicions. It is important that you contact someone as soon as possible. Whilst it is possible to remain anonymous, it is preferred that adults come foward and accurately report what s/he has witnessed.

There are many professionals you can talk to, such as the child's head teacher, local health visitors, social workers, GPs and the Family Protection Unit or any police officer.