A NEW multi-agency hub for vulnerable children has been launched.

The South Tees Multi-Agency Children’s Hub (MACH), has been jointly established by Redcar and Cleveland and Middlesbrough Councils, Cleveland Police and NHS agencies.

This will deliver a single point of contact across the whole of South Tees for anyone who is worried about a child.

Councillor Alison Barnes, Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council cabinet member for children, said: “It is all about working together with agencies across the area to ensure the very best possible support is available for our most vulnerable children and young people, just when they need it most.”

Helen Watson, Middlesbrough Council’s executive director of children’s services, said: “It’s vital that people know who to contact if they have concerns about a child’s welfare or safety. The Children’s Hub will act as vital first point of contact, with a partnership approach that ensures our resources are fully focused on those in need.”

Temporary Detective Chief Inspector Cath Galloway from Cleveland Police’s Protecting Vulnerable People Team said: This is a fantastic opportunity for all the organisations to work together and carry out safeguarding some of the most vulnerable in our community – children and young people.”

Dr Neil O’Brien, Chief Clinical Officer at the NHS’s South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group, added: “The NHS South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group is delighted to be involved with the implementation of the South Tees Multi-Agency Children’s Hub. A number of Health Provider organisations are represented within the Hub which ensures the health needs of children are understood when decisions are made to support children, young people and their families.”

If you have concerns about a child or young person call the MACH team on 01642-130700 or email

southteesmach@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

More information about what to do if you are concerned about a child can be found at

www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/safeguardingchildrenboard