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Reporting a child at risk of harm, abuse or neglect (safeguarding)

How to make a safeguarding referral and report a concern about a child or young person at risk of harm, abuse or neglect.

If you are concerned about an immediate risk to the safety of a child please call Customer First on 0808 800 4005.

In an emergency, call the Police on 999.

How to make a safeguarding referral

Guidance for professionals

If you would like to discuss whether or not a referral is required, please call the Professional Consultation Line on 03456 061 499 to speak with a MASH (Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub) social worker.

Information for professionals and members of the public

You can submit a multi-agency referral form (MARF) using the new secure Suffolk Children and Young People’s Portal.

Our online services are safe to use. You can read our online service safety page to find out more about the security of our websites, online forms and portals.

The first time you complete a referral you will be prompted to create a new portal account. Registering for an account is quick and easy, and you only need to do it once. To ensure the information you submit is secure, you will be required to log into your account every time you access the portal. Further support including a portal user guide and walk through videos are available on the portal overview page.


Contact us

Find out how to contact Customer First quickly and securely using live chat.

You can also find options to help yourself online, and phone us if needed.