Multi‑Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)

The Multi‑Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) is the central point of contact in Herefordshire for concerns about the safety or welfare of a child or young person. It brings together professionals from children’s social care, police, health, education, and other safeguarding partners to ensure that concerns are assessed quickly and that the right support or protection is put in place.

What MASH Does

1. Receives and Assesses Concerns About Children

If anyone. parent, carer, professional, or member of the public, is worried that a child is being harmed or neglected, MASH is the team to contact.

2. Provides a Single Point of Contact for Safeguarding

MASH acts as the county's central hub, ensuring information from multiple agencies is shared swiftly so children can receive the right level of help and protection.

3. Offers Guidance for Professionals

Professionals can submit referrals using the Multi‑Agency Referral Form (MARF) to request support or raise safeguarding concerns.

When to Contact MASH

You should contact MASH if:

• You think a child is being harmed or is at risk of harm.
• You suspect neglect or notice significant changes in a child’s behaviour, appearance, or wellbeing.
• You witness an incident that makes you worry about a child's safety.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, even if you don’t know the child’s name.

What Happens After You Contact MASH?

When a report is made:

• MASH gathers information from relevant services such as health, education, police, and social care.
• The team decides what level of support or intervention is needed.
• This may include early help, a social care assessment, or immediate protective action if required.

How to Contact MASH

During office hours

01432 260800

(Available Monday–Thursday 8:45am–5:15pm, Friday 8:45am–4:45pm)

Out of hours / evenings / weekends

Emergency Duty Team: 01905 768020

By email (professionals only)

ReferralsCYPD@herefordshire.gov.uk

In an emergency

Call 999 (police, fire, ambulance) if a child is in immediate danger.

Additional Support Contacts

Children’s Help and Advice Team (CHAT) – early advice & guidance for families
 01432 260261

Police Non‑Emergency (to report concerns when not urgent)

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