Safeguarding: making a MASH referral (Northamptonshire)

Step by step

1. Emergency

   If a child is in immediate danger, has been left alone or is missing, contact the police and/or ambulance service directly on 999.

2. Advice, urgent risk and out of hours

   If there is no immediate danger but you need safeguarding advice or are worried about a child's welfare, contact the Northamptonshire MASH on 0300 126 7000. This number covers North and West Northamptonshire; keep on the line and choose Option 1, then Option 1 again. The same number is used in the evening, at night and at weekends, when an operator passes details to the duty social worker. Professionals should telephone MASH about immediate risk and then put the referral in writing.

3. Anyone can refer

   Children, parents, carers, members of the public and professionals can raise a concern. Parents, carers and young people can contact MASH for advice or to discuss a referral; email MASH@nctrust.co.uk where appropriate.

4. Written referral

   For professionals, use Northamptonshire's current online referral form in all other circumstances. Do not delay an urgent referral while gathering every detail. If you are unsure which route applies, telephone MASH for advice.

5. What to have ready

   Child's details and current location, the concern and when it happened, immediate risks, the child's views where possible, parents or carers and significant adults, other agencies involved, and any Early Help work. Do not delay a referral because information is missing.