Families First

Families First works locally with key partners to support children, young people and families.

Getting access to support

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.

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.