Emergency?
If a child or young person is in immediate danger, please call 999.
Reporting a Concern
If you are worried that a child or young people in Sefton who may be suffering significant harm please call us on 0345 140 0845
Our hours are:
Monday to Thursday – 9am to 5.30pm
Fridays – 9am to 5pm
Out of Hours
If the issue cannot wait until the next working day, please contact our Emergency Duty Team outside of the above hours, including weekends and bank holidays, on 0151 934 3555
What is a Concern?
You may want to report a concern if you:
- Are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child
- Suspect neglect or abuse
- Would like to report an incident
- Are a child or young people who needs support
We appreciate that making a referral to MASH (Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub) may be difficult for you. Please be reassured that your concerns will be recorded and any response carefully considered.
Keeping children and young people safe is everyone's responsibility - families, carers, the public and professional staff in Children's Services and partner agencies.
The council has a legal duty to look into a child’s circumstances when somebody suspects abuse or neglect is occurring.
Other Options
You can also discuss your concerns with someone who works with children and families, e.g. health visitor, school nurse, social worker or teacher.
You can also contact one of the following third party agencies:
- NSPCC
If you're worried about a child, even if you're unsure, contact our professional counsellors for help, advice and support.
Email: help@nspcc.org.uk
Call: 0808 800 5000 - Childline
Childline offers free, confidential advice and support whatever your worry, whenever you need help.
Call: 0800 1111
Targeted Family Support
Early Help in Sefton is a partnership approach to supporting children and their families as soon as possible. Based on information gathered through assessment the right professionals will work with the family to support them to improve their outcomes.
A plan is put in place and reviewed regularly to ensure progress is measured and improvements stay on track and that children and families can benefit from signposting, advice and guidance through community and voluntary services. Within Sefton, Family Wellbeing Centres (FWC) comprise of 10 Council Hubs across the three localities and three commissioned FWC based in primary schools.
Find out more about early help and support for your family here.