Families First

We want to help families quickly and safely. Please think about your concern before you get in touch.

Already getting help?

If a child already has a worker from children’s services:

• Contact that worker directly
• If you don’t have their contact details but know their name, call 0300 111 8007
• If you don’t know who to speak to, call the team in the child’s local area

Need help early?

If you’re worried about a child or family, and want help before things get worse, this is called early intervention.
This might include:

• Problems with going to school
• Alcohol misuse
• Anti-social behaviour

Contact your local support team co-ordinator.

Worried about a child’s safety?

If you think a child is being harmed or is not safe, call the Staffordshire Families Integrated Front Door Service straight away.

This includes:

• Serious problems where a child may be suffering harm
• A child living in unsafe conditions that affect their health or development

Call 0300 111 8007 (choose option 1)

Help for children with disabilities

If you need help for a child with a disability or need an occupational therapist, contact the Children’s Advice and Support Service.

Do I need consent?

Before asking for help:

• Try to talk to the child and family
• Ask if they agree to the referral
• You don’t need consent for child protection concerns
• Tell parents about the referral unless it puts the child or others at risk

What is MASH?

MASH stands for Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub.
It brings together people from:

• Police
• Health services
• Local councils

They work together to decide the best way to help.