Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (Commissioner) David Allen visited Cumberland’s Safeguarding Hub at Cumbria House in Carlisle this week, to see first-hand the effective partnership working between the Police, Housing, Health, Adult and Children’s Social Care teams.
Cumberland Safeguarding Hub at Cumbria House in Carlisle receives up to 1,000 referrals a month, of which 38% are domestic abuse and neglect related concerns which impact on children.
Commissioner David Allen comments: “The multiagency team includes police officers, health workers, social workers, education officers, early help officers and business support.
“One of the functions of the Safeguarding Hub is a triage meeting which is a collaboration of Police and Social Workers. The meeting tries to ensure that the right services, reach children and their families at the right time
“The Hub is partnership working at its best. By focusing on a single point of access for referrals, all requests for support are directed to the same place. This means that access to appropriate services and partnership working between agencies, is efficient and joined up.
“In the past, there has been multiple routes and avenues into support services, which for some, has resulted in some confusion of the best way to access support. The Hub prevents this from happening which means those who need help the most are supported quickly, as all the agencies are made aware of cases within a short timeframe.
“The Safeguarding Hub is improving children’s lives and improving the services that help protect our families in Cumberland and keep people safe.”
Talking about the Cumberland Safeguarding Hub - Emma Williamson, Deputy Leader & Executive Member for Children and Family Wellbeing and Housing comments: "At the heart of every successful community is a spirit of collaboration. The Cumberland Safeguarding Hub is a shining example of how bringing together dedicated professionals from various sectors can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
“Through unified efforts, we ensure that support is swift, efficient, and effective - creating a safer, stronger Cumberland for all."
Wendy Monnelly, the Safeguarding Hub Manager comments: “We welcomed the opportunity to speak with the Commissioner and talk with him about the challenges that are facing our children and families in Cumberland.
“We hope that we provided assurances that children are at the centre of our work and all of our multi-agency team are committed to ensuring we can facilitate the best help and support for our children.”
If you are concerned that a child or young person is in an emergency situation you should contact the police urgently on 999. If you are a member of the public with a concern about a child, contact the Cumberland Safeguarding Hub on 0333 240 1727.
If you wish to report to police you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.