Dozens of Kent babies under one year old have been referred to the NSPCC's helpline.

The children's charity has released its latest figures today for the number of calls made to its helpline for children under one.

In our county, there were 46 such referrals in the last year. That compares with the area with the highest number of calls – Essex – at 63 in the same period.

Nationally the calls covered a number of concerns, from babies crying all night to people seeing youngsters looking cold and unkempt.

The charity is calling for those who work with parents to recognise the problems and for the public to contact its helpline if they are concerned about a baby.

Despite a high level of reporting to its helpline, the NSPCC believes there are far more babies at risk, but not getting the help they need.

The charity's All Babies Count campaign calls for more to be done to prevent situations getting to the point where serious action is required.

Regional head of service, Julie Cole, said: "The public have been amazing at coming forwards when they see a child in danger and we urge them to keep calling. But we're also taking action and calling on the government to support us and stop abuse and neglect happening in the first place.

"To help keep families safe, it's vital that problems are picked up early and for appropriate support be put in place.

"Services need to think about the whole family – not only helping parents deal with drink and drug problems, for example, but also ensuring they are able to care for their baby. Services must be available before it reaches crisis point."

The NSPCC's free 24-hour helpline is staffed by experienced child protection helpline counsellors. The charity can be contacted in confidence on 0808 800 5000, text 88858, or email help@nspcc.org.uk.