If you’re worried that anyone under the age of 18 might need help, or is being neglected or hurt, you must tell someone.

We know people feel nervous about speaking out in case they interfere or make things worse – but it’s much better to be wrong than do nothing. Taking action could help protect a child from harm.

If you’re a concerned member of the public, you can:

• call Children’s Services at the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 020 3045 5440 and speak to a social worker. If you’re worried you’ll be put in a difficult position, you can speak to them anonymously. The opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm 
• if it’s out of hours, call 020 8303 7777 or 020 8303 7171
• drop in and see us at Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath DA6 7AT

If you’re a concerned professional, you can:

• talk through you worries with your safeguarding lead, who can advise you if you work with children
• call Children’s Services at the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 020 3045 5440 and ask for a consultation with a social worker. The opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm 

Voluntary or paid professionals can’t make an anonymous referral. So unless there’s a significant reason not to (like suspected sexual abuse), you should discuss your concerns with the child’s parent or guardian and let them know you’re thinking about talking to Children’s Services.

Once you’ve decided to get in touch, complete the referral form. It’ll be sent to MASH and the team will respond within 24 hours.

Make a referral