Guidance on Disclosure

Most of the safeguarding we’re thinking about in Earlsfield Together relates specifically to vulnerabilities related to Covid-19. However, in case you come across anything else, or anyone discloses anything to you, we thought it would be helpful to provide some simple advice. 

Simple Steps to take

  1. If you are worried about someone else, you can speak to them about what you have noticed, being as open and honest as possible. Respect their right not to talk to you if they don’t want to. 

  2. Listen carefully to what someone is saying to you

    1. Be patient and focus on what you’re being told. Try not to express your own views and feelings. Ask gentle questions if you feel they’ll be helpful, but let people go at their own speed. Avoid leading questions

  3. Let them know they've done the right thing by telling you

    1. Reassurance can make a big impact.

  4. Tell them it's not their fault

    1. Abuse is never a child’s fault. It’s important they hear, and know, this.

  5. Say you'll take them seriously

    1. They may have kept the abuse secret because they were scared they wouldn’t be believed

  6. Don't confront anyone who might be involved

  7. After your conversation, record everything you can about the conversation, including details of when and where it took place, and look for the best place to report it.

Some Reporting Options

  • Wandsworth Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) - primarily for children

    • Telephone: 020 8871 6622

    • Telephone outside of normal office hours (after 5pm weekdays or on weekends): 020 8871 6000

    • Email: mash@wandsworth.gov.uk  

  • Wandsworth Council  - online form 

  • NSPCC - online and phone

  • Action on Elder Abuse - online and phone

  • In case of Domestic Abuse:

    • National Helpline (24/7): 0808 2000 247

    • Women’s Aid provides various contact options

    • Rape Crisis helpline

    • Galop (LGBT+ anti-violence charity) London Advice Line: 020 7704 2040 (Monday to Friday between 10:00am - 12:30pm and between 1:30pm - 4:00pm)

    • Men’s Advice Line - 0808 801 0327 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm)

  • If there’s immediate danger call 999

Additional: information 

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