Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)

For children and families

MASH provides triage and multi-agency assessment of safeguarding concerns - in respect of vulnerable children and adults. It brings together professionals from a range of agencies into an integrated multi-agency team.
About the MASH team

The MASH team share information from every agency. They make assessments and decisions. The most appropriate intervention is agreed in response to the person’s identified needs.

Decisions and timescales depend on statutory need, child protection or early help. Vulnerable children and adults are responded to by the most appropriate professional.

The MASH team is based at Hampshire County Council’s frontline contact centre and works in relationship with the Contact Assessment Resolution Team.

Outcomes of the MASH
  • A faster, more co-ordinated and consistent response to safeguarding concerns
  • An improved ‘journey’ for the child or adult.
  • There is greater emphasis on early help and better informed services. This delivers intervention at the right time
  • A clearer process for the professional or member of the public raising a concern
  • Closer partnership working, clear accountability and improved multi-agency communications
  • A reduction in the number of inappropriate referrals and re-referrals
Benefits to agencies of the MASH model
  • Safeguarding of vulnerable children and adults is a collective priority
  • Efficiency savings – financial savings through economies of scale and avoiding duplication of work
  • Efficiencies through centralisation of business support/back office, accommodation and utilities
  • Quicker response times with a better co-ordinated approach to resources. This means each agency works more effectively and efficiently in their own field of expertise
  • A better understanding and appreciation of each others roles and responsibilities. This leads to effective multi-agency working.
  • Development of flexible working patterns and providing enhanced customer service
Partners
Virtual partners
Contacts

For all emergency situations call 999.

Concerns about a child

If you have any concerns because you think that a child might be being abused and you want to talk to someone or ask someone to find out what is going on, you should contact Children’s Services:

  • phone 0300 555 1384 during office hours 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 4.30pm on Friday
  • phone 0300 555 1373 at all other times to contact the Out of Hours service

Professionals should complete the Inter-Agency Referral Form (IARF) for Hampshire or the Inter-Agency Referral Form (IARF) for Isle of Wight.

Concerns about an adult

If you have concerns or want to report you should contact Hampshire Adult Services:

Phone: 0300 555 1386 during office hours 8.30am to 5pm Monday, 9.30am to 5pm Tuesday to Thursday, 8.30am to 4.30pm on Friday

Further information about the Out of Hours service.