Worried About Someone? Click below for what to do depending on if you are:
If the matter is urgent because a child or vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, phone 999.
Volunteers & Professionals
Before making a referral, have you referred to the Safeguarding Adult Framework or Children’s Threshold Matrix? These documents provide indicators on the types of abuse which will make completing your referral easier.
Safeguarding Adult Framework
Children’s Threshold Matrix
When unsure whether a referral is required, you also have the option of to call the MASH Professional Consultation line on 0345 6061499 to speak with a MASH social worker - or use the new webchat facility available at the bottom of this page.
Webchat enables you to seek professional advice from Mash, using your PC/laptop/smartphone. Webchat provides a faster response and is a simpler way of gaining support and advice. Webchat is helpful for professionals who are unable to make a phone call and the ‘conversation’ can be printed. This would be the recommended way to contact the Mash Professional Consultation Line. Referrals cannot be made on this number and members of the public are unable to use this service.
Speak to a MASH Professional on 0345 606 14 99
When you are ready to raise a concern, please click on the appropriate below
The first time you complete a form you will be asked to create a new portal account. It’s quick and easy to register for an account, and it means the information you send to us is secure.
User guides are available through the 'report concerns…’ buttons above.
If the matter is urgent because a child or vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, phone 999.
If you are concerned about a child or an adult and unable to use the Portal below, you can call Customer First on 0808 800 4005 (this is a freephone number).
The first time you complete a form you will be asked to create a new portal account. It’s quick and easy to register for an account, and it means the information you send to us is secure.
User guides and video guidance are available below if you need help using the portals.
If you feel the need, as a member of the public to raise concerns anonymously about an adult you can do so by clicking the link below. If you feel the need, as a member of the public to raise concerns anonymously about a child you can do so by calling Customer First on 0808 800 4005.
Members of the Public
If the matter is urgent because a child or vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, phone 999.
What happens after making a Referral?
Every concern raised about the possible abuse of an adult at risk is taken seriously.
Dependent on your concern, various teams may become involved. The most appropriate team relating to the concerns you have raised will take a further look into the situation.
If you have made a referral and received confirmation, you can be assured that it is being taken seriously and followed up.
In some circumstances, we may not be able to share further information on the progress or outcome of your referral with you. Each situation is different, and we will consider the person at risk or their representatives wishes, and proportionate, appropriate information sharing in order to keep people safe.
Watch this short video to find out what happens to your referral when it reaches the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) in Suffolk, how it is triaged for urgency, and what feedback you can expect.
Confidentiality, Sensitivity and Inclusion
All information is treated with the utmost confidentiality and sensitivity. Both the referrer and the person who is being abused will be included in the decision-making process as much as possible.
If the matter is urgent because a child or vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, phone 999.
Other Referral Options
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) Referrals
If you have concerns about an adult working with a child under the age of 18 that you would like to report, please access the LADO page for more information
Help at Home Needed
If you or someone you know needs help at home, or a family carer needs extra support
Self-Neglect and Hoarding
If you are concerned an adult is at significant risk of harm due to self-neglect or hoarding you can make a referral using the forms on our Self-Neglect and Hoarding page.