THE NUMBER of child neglect referrals on the Isle of Wight has increased by a staggering 191 per cent over the last five years.
The NSPCC said it referred 35 cases of neglect on the Island to the police and children’s services following reports of suspected child neglect last year.
This is an increase of 191 per cent compared to 12 referrals in 2011/12, the charity revealed today (Wednesday).
UK-wide, the NSPCC made 16,882 referrals to children’s services or the police in 2016/17, equivalent to 46 a day.
The charity said neglect happens when a child’s needs aren’t met and is down to several reasons; they range from parents not having the skills, support or funds, to having mental health issues. 
Peter Wanless, chief executive of the NSPCC said: “Neglect can have severe and long-lasting consequences for children, and can also be an indicator of other forms of abuse. This is why it is so important for anyone suspecting a child of being neglected to contact the NSPCC Helpline, so we can alert the authorities to quickly step in and help those in need.”&a mp;lt;/div>
Common signs and symptoms adults may notice in a child who is being neglected include: 
• Poor appearance and hygiene
• Living in an unsuitable home environment, for example dog mess being left or not having any heating
• Left alone for a long time
• Untreated injuries, medical and dental issues
• Poor language, communication or social skills
• Seem hungry or turn up to school without having breakfast or any lunch money
The NSPCC supports parents who are on drug or alcohol treatment programmes through their Parents Under Pressure service, providing them with help to develop secure and healthy relationships with their children. 
Adults can contact the NSPCC Helpline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0808 800 5000, or help@nspcc.org.uk