Watch: Shocking footage shows children risking lives on eight-storey NHS building

Worrying footage shows youngsters hanging from windows and scrambling across the top of derelict Fulwood House in Sheffield, South Yorks., sparking fears somebody could be killed.

Residents say the empty block has become a magnet for youngsters despite security at the sprawling site.

Footage shows one child standing on the outside of a window frame on the top floor while two girls appear to film nearby.

Another clip captures a boy running across the roof before precariously climbing down to the floor below as other youngsters lean out of smashed windows.

Neighbours have said it is only a matter of time before somebody suffers a fatal fall.

David Walsh said: "Another day, another potential fatal accident.

"It's only a matter of time, especially when they stand on the outside window ledge."

The scenes have prompted comparisons with nearby Hallam Towers, which became popular with urban explorers before 19-year-old student Thomas Rhodes fell to his death in March 2017.

Fulwood House, formerly occupied by NHS staff, was vacated in 2023.

Locals have questioned how youngsters are repeatedly getting inside and called on its owners to properly secure the site.

One said: "It's down to the building owner to ensure that it's properly secure.

"Their insurers won't be impressed if somebody does get hurt and it’s been public knowledge that the site isn't properly secure."

Another said: "I received a call today from an officer at South Yorkshire Police, following my formal request for help.

"The general tone was looking to help but with limited resources. They are aiming to establish patrols as often as possible, including parking in the area when on breaks."

South Yorkshire Police warned people to stay away from abandoned buildings because of the dangers involved.

A spokesperson said: "Abandoned buildings and areas that are closed off are often shut down for safety reasons and anyone who enters them could pose a serious risk to themselves and others.

"We would always urge people to think twice before putting themselves into danger by entering such buildings and anyone caught could face civil prosecution.

"Damaging a building whilst gaining access can also be a criminal offence."

The Fulwood House site is owned by Sheffield Health Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, formerly Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust.

A sale was originally agreed in 2022 and developer Expresso Properties later submitted plans for a £50million housing development.

But the company pulled out in November last year after the sale contract expired.

The wider site also contains a heritage building damaged by fire last year which is due to be demolished.

The eight-storey office itself has suffered two fires on its top floor, while several smaller buildings across the site have also been vandalised.