NEW measures to prevent child abuse and neglect have been launched.

The Child Protection Procedures Handbook sets out how all agencies and professionals in the borough should work together to protect young people.

The book will be used by everyone who works with children and families, from doctors to social workers, teachers to police and probation officers.

The handbook has been issued by the Bury Area Child Protection Committee and will be available to the public in libraries, clinics and GPs' surgeries.

Mr Peter Duxbury, chairman of the area protection committee, said: "It helps to ensure that all agencies work together effectively to promote the well-being of our young people and to safeguard them from harm.

"The committee recognises that work with children and families, particularly where there are concerns about a child's welfare, is difficult and sensitive. The new procedures will contribute to effective co-operation between different agencies and allow sensitive work with parents and carers in the best interests of children."

Mr Duxbury added: "We want to raise awareness within the community of the need to safeguard children and promote their welfare as well as to explain how the community generally can contribute to child protection."