Harm Outside the Home

Harm Outside The Home (HOTH), previously known as MACE (Multi-Agency Child Exploitation), was set up in 2021 and replaced the former VEMT (Vulnerable, Exploited, Missing and Trafficked) arrangements. HOTH does not replace existing safeguarding pathways but provides additional oversight and resources to address child exploitation in Hartlepool and risks and harms children face outside their family environments.

Our approach

We developed this approach to recognise and respond to harm occurring outside the family home. We work in partnership with parents, carers and young people and ensure collaboration between the agencies and sharing of resources.

What is HOTH?

HOTH aims to provide a coordinated and proactive approach to protecting children from harm beyond home and online. We understand that parents and carers may not be able to influence external environments, so safeguarding is a shared responsibility.

Concerned about a child?

If you are a parent or carer and are concerned that your child is at risk of exploitation or harm, please contact the Children’s Hub for advice. If you are already receiving support from Children’s Services, speak to your allocated worker.