If you believe you or someone else is in danger or that a crime has been committed, your first step should be to alert the emergency services by dialling 999.
Emergency contacts:
Call Essex Social Services for help, advice or information for yourself or someone you know.
Children
Call: 0845 603 7634
Out of hours call: 0845 606 1212
Adults
Essex - Call: 0845 603 7634 Out of hours call: 0845 606 1212
Southend - Call: 01702 215008 Out of hours call: 0845 606 1212
Thurrock - Call: 01375 366 083 Out of hours call: 01375 372 468
Advice
Essex County Council can advise you on what to do if:
Safeguarding
The term ‘safeguarding’ can apply to both adults and children and is about protecting them, preventing their abuse or neglect and educating those around them to recognise the signs and dangers. Abuse can be physical, emotional or psychological, sexual or financial.
Safeguarding usually refers to those who may be vulnerable, this can include:
- children under the age of 18;
- people with physical, visual, hearing or learning disability;
- people with mental health issues;
- the elderly, frail or ill;
- those suffering from any form of domestic abuse.