People being Safeguarded

Safeguarding For All

Protecting the vulnerable, empowering the community.

Report a Concern

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding is the action taken to promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and protect them from harm. This includes protecting their health, well-being, and human rights, enabling them to live free from abuse and harm.

Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone. If you have concerns, it is your duty to report them.

Group of people with the caption 'Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility'

Recognise the Signs

A person striking someone

Physical Abuse

  • Unexplained injuries, burns, or bruises
  • Frequent absences from school, work, or activities
  • Fear of going home or being around certain individuals
A person being yelled at

Emotional Abuse

  • Frequent shouting or insults directed towards them
  • Excessive fear or anxiety
  • Withdrawal from social interactions
  • Low self-esteem or self-worth
A bag of money being taken

Financial Abuse

  • Unexplained withdrawals or changes in financial status
  • Sudden loss of possessions or assets
  • Pressure to give money or possessions to others
A person covering their face and body

Sexual Abuse

  • Unexplained injuries in genital areas
  • Difficulty or reluctance to sit down or engage in physical activities
  • Changes in behavior, such as sexualized behavior inappropriate for their age
An image of a food bowl with a cross through it

Neglect

  • Malnutrition or poor hygiene
  • Inappropriate clothing for the weather
  • Frequent absences from school or work
  • Lack of medical care or attention

These signs may indicate that someone is experiencing abuse and needs help.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other signs may also be present.

If you notice any of these signs in those around you, please read the next section and then report your concerns.

Remember, safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

Respond to Concerns

Steps to Take

1. Listen

If they are willing to talk, listen to the individual without judgment.

Allow them to express their concerns and feelings.

2. Do Not Confront

Avoid confronting the alleged abuser.

This could escalate the situation and lead to worse outcomes.

3. Document

Keep detailed notes of what you have observed, including dates, times, and descriptions of incidents.

These notes will be important when reporting your concerns.

4. Report

If it is an emergency, dial 999.

Otherwise, report your concerns to a trusted person - a supervisor, police officer, or safeguarding lead.

You can also contact us with your concerns here.

NHS

Information from the National Health Service (external link).

Visit NHS
Care Quality Commission

Information from the Care Quality Commission (external link).

Visit CQC
Social Care Institute for Excellence

Information from the Social Care Institute for Excellence (external link).

Visit SCIE