MORE than 80 cases of child neglect were reported to police in Dorset last year due to the NSPCC's helpline.

Volunteers for the helpline took the calls from adults concerned about the welfare of youngsters in the county.

In total, the NSPCC refers an average of seven cases of neglect every month to Dorset Police and social services.

One caller said: "The children are home alone again; I saw the mother leave the house earlier this morning and it's past midnight now.

"I’ve seen the children peer through the curtains a few times as if they’re waiting for her.

"She does this every Friday night to go out drinking with her mates.

"I’m really confused about what to do as I don’t want to ruin the relationship with the mother as we are neighbours but at the same time I am really worried about the children.

"What should I do?”

In 2016/17, the charity dealt with 82 cases in Dorset – matching the previous year’s highest-ever number recorded for the county.

Neglected children may have poor hygiene, be living in an unsuitable home environment, have untreated injuries, medical or dental issues or be left alone for long periods.

They may also seem hungry or have poor language, communication or social skills.

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."

Adults can contact the NSPCC Helpline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0808 800 5000, or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk