We work with other agencies, including the police and local health services, to protect the most vulnerable.

If you're a victim of abuse, or you're concerned that a child, young person, or a vulnerable adult is at risk of experiencing abuse or neglect, then you should report this straight away. Acting speedily will enable the appropriate services to take the proper actions to prevent harm.

If you're a child or young person worried about yourself or another young person, you can contact the MASH team, who will help you access support. 

Alternatively, you can speak to someone at ChildLine on 0800 1111 - calls are free and confidential. You can also contact someone through the ChildLine website.

  • Report any safeguarding concerns about a child or young person to children's safeguarding and social work teams during office hours on 01925 443322, press option one followed by option one
  • Outside of office hours call us on 01925 443322 and press option 2 to go through to our out of hours service
  • If you believe a crime has been committed, contact the police on 101

If you believe the child is at immediate risk of harm, call 999

We all have a responsibility to be alert to possible concerns and act to safeguard others in our families and communities who may be less able to protect themselves.

Professionals

If you're a teacher, doctor, nurse, youth worker, etc., please complete the multi-agency request for services (MARS) form to refer a child or young person who you think may be vulnerable or at risk.

If you need to save a copy of the MARS form please use the ‘Download PDF’ button after you have clicked Submit. As we will be unable to provide you with a copy of the form after you have submitted it.

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Spotting signs of abuse in children

We're in full support of the Department for Education's campaign to encourage members of the public to report child abuse. We want to make it normal practice to report abuse so that children can get help. 

There are some examples to help you spot signs of child abuse or neglect. Here are a few examples:

Appearance 

Frequent unexplained injuries, consistently poor hygiene, matted hair, unexplained gifts, or parents regularly collecting children from school when drunk or under the influence of drugs.

Behaviour

Demanding or aggressive behaviour, frequent lateness or absence from school, avoiding their own family, misusing drugs or alcohol, or being constantly tired.

Communication

Sexual or aggressive language, self-harming, becoming secretive and reluctant to share information, or being overly obedient.

If a person is in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police.

More information:  

1 August 2023