If you suspect you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or neglect, please report it as soon as possible.
Do not assume someone else will act. It is in everyone’s interest to look out for others and protect them from abuse.
In an emergency
If it is an emergency, or if you suspect you or someone else is in immediate danger, phone 999.
Report a concern about an adult
Portsmouth City Council has a duty to respond to safeguarding concerns when an adult:
- has care and support needs
- is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect
- cannot protect themselves because of their care and support needs
How to report
If you're reporting a safeguarding concern in a professional capacity, you must report it using the online referral form.
If you're a member of the public, you can report it using the online referral form. If you need help completing the referral form, call the adult social care helpdesk on 023 9268 0810. You can report concerns for yourself, or for a family member, friend, or neighbour.
For urgent out-of-hours contact with social care, call Hampshire Out of Hours on 0300 555 1373.
Report a concern about a child
Contact the Children’s Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH):
- phone: 023 9268 8793
- out of hours number: 0300 555 1373
- email: mash@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Get help with domestic abuse
- phone: 0330 0533 630
- email: advice@stopdomesticabuse.uk
- visit the Stop Domestic Abuse website
If you cannot use the phone, register with the police direct access line service.
Get mental health support
Encourage the person to visit their GP in the first instance.
Call 999 if they are at risk of harming themselves or others.
You can contact the Portsmouth Mental Health Hub team on 0300 123 6621, or visit the Portsmouth Mental Health Hub website.
Portsmouth Safeguarding Adults Board (PSAB)
Every local authority must have a Safeguarding Adults Board. It's a partnership of local organisations working together to oversee and lead safeguarding Portsmouth. This includes:
- the council
- police
- NHS
- fire and rescue
Visit the Portsmouth Safeguarding Adults Board website, and find out more about:
- safeguarding adults
- types of abuse and neglect to be aware of
- What happens when you report a safeguarding concern