Emergency duty social workers

What is an emergency duty social worker?

  • An emergency duty social worker is on duty at all times out of hours. This is necessary to meet urgent needs that cannot wait until the next working day.

When you call, an operator will pass the details to the duty social worker. They will return your call as soon as possible and always within an hour.

The social worker may give you advice and guidance on how to deal with the problem. They may refer the matter to the specialist service the next working day. They may arrange immediate help from social care or other agencies, if needed.

They work closely with other agencies. These include the out of hours services of Harrow Mental Health Services. They are part of CNWL NHS Foundation Trust.

Duty social workers deal with:

  • Urgent difficulties with children and young people.
  • Child protection matters.
  • Older people who are at risk or who need immediate help.
  • Concerns about a person with a disability.
  • Urgent help for someone with learning difficulties. Including mental health issues.
  • Mental Health Act assessments.
  • Vulnerable people in police custody.
  • Homelessness.

 

Out of hours social services

Emergency duty social workers are available from 5pm to 9am, Monday to Friday. They are also available at these same times on weekends, and on Bank holidays. If a crime has been committed, or you have urgent safety concerns for at-risk adults, call the Police. Use 999 for emergencies, or 101 for non-emergencies.

Telephone: 020 8424 0999

Social services

Telephone: 020 8901 2680

Mental health crisis line

This service is open on weekdays after 5pm and before 8am. It is available 24 hours on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Telephone: 0800 0234 650

Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS)

Telephone: 020 8736 6153