Multi-agency adults at risk system

Last updated 7 March 2022

The multi-agency adults at risk system (MAARS) is for professionals to help them support adults who are at risk, or vulnerable, in Stockport.

MAARS was set up after findings of high profile Serious Case Reviews identified that:

• some adults were at risk of falling through apparent gaps in services
• a large number of referrals were not meeting eligibility thresholds
• there were increasing concerns about risks to vulnerable people in the community

MAARS:

• provides a single pathway for partner agencies and colleagues to highlight adults at risk in the community. Adults may come into contact with services but not necessarily meet the threshold for those services
• provides a multi-agency forum to collaborate and co-ordinate action across services, reduce duplication and agree the best way to work with adults current needs, and prevent crisis
• aims to better understand and reduce risk
• proactively reduces demand on services through a more efficient and informed use of available resources

Make a referral

You can make a referral to MAARS if:

• you're a professional
• the adult at risk does not meet eligibility thresholds
• you have increasing concerns about the adult at risk

Your referral must meet one or more of the following criteria:

• anti-social behaviour
• domestic abuse
• housing
• mental health
• offending
• physical health
• risk of criminal exploitation
• risk of sexual exploitation
• self-harm
• self-neglect
• substance misuse
• vulnerable adult

You'll need to make sure that your manager is aware and is in agreement with the action.

Make a referral to the panel

When we receive your referral

MAARS panel meetings usually take place once a month.

When we receive your referral, you'll be notified of the date and time of the MAARS panel meeting where you'll be expected to present your case.