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Child abuse general guidance

Child safeguarding guidance. Includes multi-agency working, child protection plans and NHS support.

Contents

Multi-agency Safeguarding Hub

Southwark's Multi-agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is the central point for all child safeguarding referrals in the borough. 

It ensures a coordinated, risk-assessed response to protect vulnerable children and their families.

MASH is a mix of experts from different sectors. This collaboration ensures comprehensive support, with 1 plan tailored to meet every family member's needs.

When a child is referred MASH carries out a thorough screening. It shares information securely among agencies. 

It uses a red, amber, green (RAG) rating system to prioritise referrals. 

The MASH manager picks the best intervention for the child's needs. They let the referrer know about all decisions made.

Find out how to make a referral to MASH.