8.1 If a concern is of an immediate serious nature an aIRD (Adult Initial ReferralDiscussion) may be called by the MASH. An IRD should be called if:
- the person is at immediate harm and significant risk of harm;
- there is an accumulation or escalation of concern which indicate risk of significant harm;
- there is a complex situation in which multi-agency assessment and discussion is required to aid decision-making.
8.2 If a person is in a place of safety i.e. a hospital or care environment, it should not be automatically assumed that the risk is being managed. It may be beneficial for the Adult MASH Social Work team to complete initial checks to gather further information before a decision is made to progress to IRD.