The Isle of Wight’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) for children and families is undergoing a significant change.
From Monday 24th February, the Isle of Wight Children’s Services will manage its own Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub, following the conclusion of its partnership with Hampshire County Council.
A unified approach to child protection
The MASH brings together professionals from different sectors, including children’s social care, police, health providers and education.
Its purpose is to share vital information and make well-informed decisions that ensure the safety and welfare of children on the Island.
By working collaboratively, these professionals can quickly identify risks, intervene appropriately and provide essential support for children and families in need.
Council’s commitment to safeguarding
The Isle of Wight council, alongside its partner agencies, has a statutory duty to protect children and promote their welfare.
Through coordinated efforts and shared expertise, the MASH ensures that children receive the right support at the right time.
This transition marks an important step in strengthening local safeguarding services and tailoring them specifically to the needs of Isle of Wight residents.
How to report concerns
Island residents who are concerned about a child’s welfare or safety can report their concerns via the Isle of Wight council’s website or by calling (01983) 823435.
A separate phone line, (01983) 823436, is available for professionals working with children and families.
New referral form available online
To reflect these changes, the Inter-Agency Referral Form (IARF) will be accessible from 24th February on both the Isle of Wight council’s website and the Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Partnership website.
Whittaker: Significant milestone reflects our unwavering commitment
The Director of Children’s Services, Ashley Whittaker, expressed enthusiasm about the new arrangement, stating,
“We are delighted to announce that the multi-agency safeguarding hub for our children and families on the Island is now being delivered in-house by Isle of Wight Children’s Services.
“This significant milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of care and protection for the children in our community.”
Acknowledging the previous collaboration, he added,
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hampshire County Council for their invaluable support and collaboration over the past years. We also extend our thanks to the Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Partnership, whose expertise and dedication have been instrumental in helping us reach this point. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership as we move forward.”
“Together, we are making a profound difference in the lives of children and families on the Isle of Wight.”
Further Information
For more details on what this transition means for children and families, visit the Isle of Wight council’s website.
