Two more cheaper 0300 numbers introduced

Rochdale Borough Council has introduced two more 0300 numbers, as it continues to phase out 0845 and 0844 numbers, making it more affordable to contact the council using a mobile phone.

The new number for Children’s Social Care is 0300 303 0440 and covers enquiries related to child protection, family support or help for children with serious illnesses or disabilities.

In addition, the new number for contacting the Rochdale Borough Safeguarding Children Board (RBSCB) is 0300 303 0350. RBSCB is the independent body that works with organisations in the borough to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.

The council has also moved both Fostering and Adoption lines into the same number, 0300 303 1000.

Councillor Donna Martin, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Rochdale Borough Council, said:

“We are always keen to encourage people to get in touch if they have any concerns about children’s safety, or need support for their family.  Moving these lines to cheaper 0300 numbers makes it more affordable for residents to access these vital services.”

The new numbers cost the same to call as geographic numbers starting 01 or 02.

Calls to 0300 numbers are often included as part of inclusive minutes, discount schemes or bundled packages for mobile phone contracts in the same way as geographic calls, so will be free in many cases.

The council’s Early Help Offer helps families access any support they might need to make their lives easier. This includes childcare, health services, activities and community groups, employment, training, counselling and support for families with disabled children. For more information on what’s available visit www.rochdale.gov.uk/familyhelp

If you do need to phone the council, you can call for free from the ground floor of Number One Riverside in Rochdale and at libraries in Middleton, Heywood, Littleborough, Balderstone and Milnrow. Information about all of the council’s services, including contact numbers, can be found on the website www.rochdale.gov.uk

If you feel a child or young person is in immediate danger please dial 999.