Child protection

Worried about a child’s safety?

If you are concerned about a child or young person in Devon and want to speak to someone contact our Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 0345 155 1071 or email mashsecure@devon.gov.uk and give as much information as you can.

If a child is at immediate risk contact the police on 999.

More about the MASH.

Devon Children and Families Partnership (DCFP)

If you want to find out more about recognising the warning signs of child abuse, finding support and keeping children safe and healthy, the Devon Children and Families Partnership (DCFP) provides clear and useful information, as well as signposting to other resources.

The following organisations can also offer advice and information if you are concerned about a child:

• NSPCC
• Childline
• REACH – Devon-based service supporting young people who either run away or who may be at risk of, or experiencing child sexual exploitation (CSE)

Children and young people

If you are worried about your own safety or that of a friend call 0345 155 1071.

The Devon Children and Families Partnership has lots of information about where to go for help if you are concerned for your own safety or someone else, at home, school or out and about.

Professionals

If you are a professional and want to make a MASH contact with Children’s Social Care you need to complete the multi-agency enquiry form unless your enquiry is to discuss an allegation made against an adult working with children, in which case you should contact the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) service.

Find out what to do when making a MASH contact.