{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}


Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy

Purpose of the Policy

This policy aims to ensure that all adults receiving care and support from {{org_field_name}} are safeguarded from abuse, neglect, and harm. It sets out clear guidelines for staff on identifying, preventing, and responding to safeguarding concerns.

All employees, contractors, and volunteers have a duty to safeguard adults in our care. This policy provides a structured approach to recognising and reporting abuse while promoting the dignity, respect, and safety of service users.

Commitment to Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Neglect

{{org_field_name}} is fully committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all service users. Every individual has the right to live free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Staff must:

Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy is based on the key legal frameworks and regulations governing adult safeguarding in England:

All staff must familiarise themselves with these legal frameworks and apply them in their daily practice. Compliance with these regulations is essential for maintaining the safety and wellbeing of service users and upholding the reputation of {{org_field_name}}.

2. Scope

Applicability to All Service Users, Staff, Volunteers, and Third-Party Providers

This safeguarding policy applies to everyone involved in the provision of care at {{org_field_name}}. This includes:

All individuals listed above have a responsibility to understand, follow, and adhere to the safeguarding procedures outlined in this policy. They must report any safeguarding concerns immediately using the procedures provided.

Services Covered

This policy applies to all regulated activities provided by {{org_field_name}}.

Regardless of the type of care provided, safeguarding must remain a priority in all interactions. Staff must be vigilant in recognising signs of abuse or neglect across all services.

Age Groups and Types of Needs Catered To

{{org_field_name}} primarily provides care and support to:

3. Definitions

Abuse

Abuse is any action or lack of action that causes harm, distress, or suffering to an adult who may be at risk. Abuse can be intentional or unintentional, and it can occur in any setting, including within a care environment, the community, or the individual’s home. Staff must be able to recognise and respond to different types of abuse.

Types of Abuse:

Physical Abuse – This includes hitting, slapping, pushing, misuse of medication, inappropriate restraint, or any physical harm inflicted on a person.

Staff must report any signs of unexplained bruises, burns, fractures, or injuries immediately.

Emotional or Psychological Abuse – This includes verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, humiliation, or controlling behaviour that affects a person’s emotional well-being.

Staff must be aware of sudden changes in mood, withdrawal, fearfulness, or signs of distress.

Financial or Material Abuse – This includes theft, fraud, exploitation, misuse of property, or improper use of legal authority over a person’s finances.

Staff must be alert to unexplained financial transactions, missing personal belongings, or sudden financial difficulties.

Sexual Abuse – This includes any non-consensual sexual act, inappropriate touching, or coercion into sexual activity.

Staff must report any signs of bruising in intimate areas, changes in behaviour, withdrawal, or reluctance to be touched.

Neglect and Acts of Omission – This occurs when care needs are ignored, including failing to provide food, medication, or necessary medical care.

Staff must report any instances where an individual is left without adequate nutrition, hydration, medication, or hygiene.

Self-Neglect – This happens when a person fails to care for their own basic needs, including hygiene, nutrition, or health, which can lead to serious harm.

Staff must monitor and report signs of malnutrition, extreme weight loss, poor hygiene, or living in unsafe conditions.

Domestic Abuse – This includes any form of abuse between intimate partners or family members, including physical, emotional, financial, or sexual abuse.

Staff must be vigilant if a service user appears fearful of a partner or family member, has frequent injuries, or is reluctant to speak freely.

Discriminatory Abuse – This occurs when someone is treated unfairly based on their age, gender, disability, race, religion, or sexual orientation.

Staff must be aware of exclusion from activities, derogatory language, or denial of rights due to a person’s background or identity.

Organisational Abuse – This occurs when care services fail to meet the needs of individuals due to poor practice, lack of resources, or inadequate leadership.

Staff must report concerns if they witness a culture of poor care, rigid routines that disregard personal preferences, or inadequate staffing levels.

Modern Slavery – This includes human trafficking, forced labour, or exploitation.

Staff must be alert to signs of coercion, individuals being prevented from leaving their home, or evidence of forced or unpaid labour.

All staff have a duty to report any suspected or witnessed abuse immediately, following the reporting procedures outlined in this policy.

Safeguarding Lead

The Safeguarding Lead is the designated person responsible for overseeing all safeguarding matters within {{org_field_name}}. This individual ensures that concerns are reported, investigations are conducted, and necessary actions are taken to protect service users.

Designated Safeguarding Lead: {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_name}} – {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_role}}

Responsibilities of the Safeguarding Lead:

Receiving and documenting safeguarding concerns from staff, service users, or external parties.

Ensuring all concerns are reported to the relevant local authority or safeguarding team.

Acting as the main point of contact for external safeguarding agencies.

Providing guidance and support to staff regarding safeguarding procedures.

Ensuring all staff receive appropriate safeguarding training.

Monitoring safeguarding incidents and reviewing policy effectiveness.

Staff must immediately report any safeguarding concerns to the Safeguarding Lead, ensuring detailed records are kept of the incident, actions taken, and outcomes.

Mental Capacity

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 provides a framework to protect individuals who may not have the ability to make informed decisions about their care and welfare.

Key Principles of the Mental Capacity Act:

Assume that every adult has the capacity to make their own decisions unless proven otherwise.

Support individuals to make decisions whenever possible, providing information in a way they understand.

A person has the right to make an unwise or eccentric decision, provided they have the capacity to do so.

If an individual lacks capacity, any decision made on their behalf must be in their best interests.

Any intervention must be the least restrictive option necessary to meet the individual’s needs.

Staff Responsibilities:

Identify service users who may lack the capacity to make informed decisions.

Use appropriate communication methods to support decision-making.

If a person lacks capacity, consult with family members, advocates, or legal representatives before making decisions on their behalf.

Record all assessments and decisions made under the Mental Capacity Act.

Ensure that any restrictions imposed on a service user comply with the law and are regularly reviewed.

Failure to follow the Mental Capacity Act can lead to legal consequences and harm to service users. Staff must always act within the guidelines of the law and seek guidance from the Safeguarding Lead when in doubt.

4. Preventative Measures

Preventing abuse and safeguarding service users is a priority for all staff at {{org_field_name}}. This section outlines the proactive steps taken to minimise risks and ensure a safe environment for service users.

Staff Training on Safeguarding and Abuse Prevention

All staff must receive regular training on safeguarding adults, which includes:

Staff Responsibilities:

Failure to complete mandatory safeguarding training will result in disciplinary action.

Recruitment Procedures (DBS Checks, References) to Ensure Fit and Proper Persons Employed

To safeguard service users, {{org_field_name}} follows strict recruitment and vetting procedures to ensure all staff are suitable for their roles.

Staff Responsibilities:

Employing unfit persons can result in legal action and loss of CQC registration. {{org_field_name}} has zero tolerance for failure to meet safeguarding requirements.

Whistleblowing Policy to Encourage Reporting of Concerns

Whistleblowing is the act of reporting wrongdoing, including concerns about safeguarding, abuse, or malpractice within the organisation. {{org_field_name}} encourages all staff to report concerns without fear of reprisal.

Staff Responsibilities:

Failure to report known safeguarding concerns is a serious offence and may result in disciplinary action. The safety of service users depends on staff being proactive in recognising and addressing safeguarding risks.

5. How to Raise Concerns About Abuse

All staff have a legal and ethical responsibility to report any concerns about abuse, neglect, or safeguarding risks. Delays in reporting could result in harm to a service user. This section provides clear instructions for reporting concerns.

Reporting Process for Service Users
Service users must feel safe and supported in raising concerns about their care. Staff must ensure that service users:

If a service user discloses abuse or neglect:

Reporting Process for Family Members, Advocates, and Those Acting on Behalf of Service Users
Family members, legal representatives, and advocates play a crucial role in safeguarding. If they express concerns about abuse, staff must:

Steps to Report a Concern:

Reporting Process for Staff and Volunteers
All staff and volunteers have a duty to report suspected or confirmed abuse. This applies whether the abuse was witnessed directly, disclosed by a service user, or suspected based on observed changes in behaviour.

Steps to Report a Concern:

  1. Verbally report the concern immediately to the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead.
  2. Send an email detailing the concern to the Registered Manager at: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}.
  3. Call the office to inform the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead at {{org_field_phone_no}}.
  4. If the concern arises out of office hours, call the out-of-hours safeguarding number: {{out_of_hours}}.
  5. If there is an immediate danger to a service user, call 999.

Staff must document concerns accurately, including:

Failure to report safeguarding concerns is a serious breach of duty and may result in disciplinary action.

Confidentiality and Protection from Retaliation
{{org_field_name}} is committed to protecting staff, service users, and others who report abuse. All reports will be handled confidentially, and information will only be shared with relevant safeguarding authorities.

Escalation Process if Concerns Are Not Addressed
If a staff member or service user reports a safeguarding concern and does not receive a response or believes that the concern is not being handled appropriately, they must escalate the issue.

External Reporting Contacts:

Immediate Danger: If a service user is at immediate risk of harm, staff must call 999 and ensure the individual is safe while waiting for emergency services.

It is the responsibility of all staff to ensure that safeguarding concerns are reported, followed up, and escalated where necessary. Failure to do so puts service users at risk and may result in regulatory action against the organisation.

6. Process for Reporting Safeguarding Concerns

All staff must follow the correct procedure when identifying, reporting, and recording safeguarding concerns. Failure to do so could result in harm to service users and legal consequences for the organisation. The process outlined below ensures that concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.

Step-by-Step Process for Identifying, Reporting, and Recording Concerns

Recognise the Signs

Be alert to indicators of abuse, neglect, or improper treatment.

Look for physical injuries, changes in behaviour, withdrawal, distress, fearfulness, or unusual financial activity.

Take note of environmental concerns, such as unsafe living conditions or lack of basic care.

Respond to the Concern

Listen carefully if a service user or third party discloses abuse.

Stay calm, do not ask leading questions, and do not promise confidentiality.

Reassure the individual that their concern will be taken seriously and that action will be taken to keep them safe.

Report the Concern Immediately

Inform the Safeguarding Lead or Registered Manager as soon as possible.

If immediate danger is present, call 999 for emergency assistance.

Use the official reporting channels:

Verbally inform the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead.

Send an email detailing the concern to {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}.

Call the office at {{org_field_phone_no}}.

Out-of-hours concerns should be reported to {{out_of_hours}}.

Record the Concern Accurately

Complete a safeguarding incident report as soon as possible.

Include the following details:

The name and details of the service user involved.

A factual description of the concern or incident.

The date, time, and location of the incident.

Any immediate actions taken.

The names of any witnesses.

Do not include assumptions or personal opinions—stick to the facts.

Follow Up and Monitor

Check on the well-being of the service user.

Ensure they receive any necessary support or referrals.

Maintain confidentiality but ensure that all relevant parties are informed appropriately.

Safeguarding Lead Contact Details

The designated Safeguarding Lead is responsible for handling all safeguarding concerns. All staff must know how to contact them.

Safeguarding Lead: {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_name}}

Phone: {{org_field_phone_no}}

Email: {{org_field_email}}

Office Address:

{{org_field_door_no}}

{{org_field_building_name}}

{{org_field_street_line_01}}

{{org_field_street_line_02}}

{{org_field_city_town}}

{{org_field_county}}

{{org_field_post_code}}

If the Safeguarding Lead is unavailable, concerns must be escalated to the Registered Manager or reported directly to external agencies.

Immediate Actions to Ensure Safety

When a safeguarding concern is raised, immediate action must be taken to protect the service user.

If there is an immediate threat to life or safety, call 999.

Remove the individual from the unsafe environment if possible and appropriate.

Ensure the individual is not left alone if they are at risk.

Do not confront the alleged abuser unless necessary for safety reasons.

If the concern involves a staff member, they may need to be suspended while the investigation is conducted.

Reporting to External Agencies

If a safeguarding concern involves abuse, neglect, or improper treatment, the issue must be reported to the appropriate external agency.

Local Authority Adult Safeguarding Team: {{org_field_local_authority_authority_name}}

Contact details: {{org_field_local_authority_information_link}}

The local authority has a legal duty under the Care Act 2014 to investigate safeguarding concerns.

Care Quality Commission (CQC)

Phone: 03000 616161

CQC should be notified if the concern involves regulatory breaches, poor care standards, or organisational failures.

Police (if a crime has been committed)

Emergency: Call 999

Non-Emergency: Call 101

Other Specialist Agencies

NSPCC (for concerns involving children): 0808 800 5000

Modern Slavery Helpline: 08000 121 700

Timescales for Response

Immediate Danger: If a service user is at immediate risk, staff must act immediately by calling 999 and removing the individual from harm.

Reporting to the Safeguarding Lead: Staff must report all concerns on the same day they are identified.

Internal Review: The Safeguarding Lead must assess and decide on further action within 24 hours.

Referral to the Local Authority: If a formal safeguarding referral is required, this must be done within 48 hours.

Follow-up Actions: Updates and reviews must be conducted regularly until the issue is resolved.

Failure to follow these timescales could result in serious consequences, including regulatory action by CQC. All staff must ensure concerns are reported promptly and accurately.

7. Role of the Local Authority Safeguarding Team

Local Authorities have a statutory duty under the Care Act 2014 to safeguard adults at risk of abuse or neglect. The Local Authority Safeguarding Team is responsible for investigating safeguarding concerns and ensuring appropriate actions are taken to protect individuals.

All staff at {{org_field_name}} must understand how to refer safeguarding concerns to the Local Authority and work in coordination with safeguarding professionals.

Local Authority Contact Information and Safeguarding Referral Process

The Local Authority Adult Safeguarding Team is the primary organisation responsible for handling safeguarding concerns within its geographic area.

Local Authority Contact Details:

When to Contact the Local Authority Safeguarding Team:

Steps to Make a Referral:

  1. Complete an internal safeguarding report following the organisation’s process.
  2. Contact the Local Authority Safeguarding Team using the details provided above.
  3. Provide full details of the concern, including:
    • The service user’s name, age, and contact details.
    • A clear description of the safeguarding concern, including dates, times, and incidents.
    • Any actions already taken to protect the individual.
    • Any known risks or factors affecting the service user’s safety.
    • Details of other professionals involved in the service user’s care.
  4. Record the referral details and maintain secure records in compliance with data protection laws.
  5. Follow up with the Local Authority to check the progress of the referral and ensure the individual is safeguarded.

Failure to report concerns to the Local Authority when required may result in regulatory action by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Coordination with Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hubs (MASH)

Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hubs (MASH) are teams that bring together multiple safeguarding agencies, including Local Authorities, police, NHS services, and social care organisations. MASH teams assess safeguarding referrals and determine the appropriate response.

Role of MASH in Safeguarding:

Staff Responsibilities When Working with MASH:

The Local Authority Safeguarding Team and MASH are essential partners in protecting service users from abuse and neglect. Staff at {{org_field_name}} must ensure they follow the correct procedures when making referrals and cooperate fully with external safeguarding investigations.

8. Responding to a Safeguarding Incident

All staff at {{org_field_name}} must follow the correct procedures when responding to a safeguarding incident. The way an incident is handled can significantly impact the safety and well-being of the service user and the effectiveness of any subsequent investigation.

Initial Response by Staff

When a safeguarding concern arises, staff must act immediately to ensure the safety of the service user and prevent further harm.

Steps to Take:

  1. Ensure Immediate Safety
    • If the service user is in immediate danger, call 999 for emergency assistance.
    • Remove the individual from the situation if safe to do so.
    • Do not leave the service user alone if they are at serious risk.
  2. Listen and Reassure the Service User
    • Listen carefully and allow them to speak without interruption.
    • Do not ask leading questions or pressure them for details.
    • Reassure them that they are safe and that appropriate action will be taken.
    • Explain that you will need to report the concern to protect them.
  3. Report the Concern Immediately
    • Notify the Safeguarding Lead or Registered Manager without delay.
    • Use the reporting channels:
      • Verbal report to the Safeguarding Lead or Registered Manager.
      • Email report to {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}.
      • Call the office at {{org_field_phone_no}}.
      • Out-of-hours emergencies should be reported to {{out_of_hours}}.
  4. Document the Incident Accurately
    • Record all details objectively, including:
      • The date, time, and location of the incident.
      • The name of the service user and others involved.
      • What was seen, heard, or disclosed.
      • Any immediate actions taken.
    • Do not include opinions or assumptions—stick to facts.

Investigative Procedures

Once a safeguarding incident is reported, an investigation must be carried out to determine the facts and take appropriate action.

  1. Internal Investigation
    • The Safeguarding Lead will review the report and decide on the next steps.
    • A safeguarding case file will be created to document all findings.
    • Witness statements may be taken from staff and service users.
    • Any relevant medical or incident reports will be collected.
    • If the alleged perpetrator is a staff member, they may be suspended during the investigation.
  2. Reporting to External Authorities
    • If required, the case will be referred to:
      • Local Authority Adult Safeguarding Team via {{org_field_local_authority_information_link}}.
      • Care Quality Commission (CQC) at 03000 616161.
      • Police (if a crime has been committed) via 999 for emergencies or 101 for non-emergencies.
  3. Follow-Up and Review
    • The investigation’s findings will be reviewed to ensure safeguarding measures are effective.
    • Any weaknesses in safeguarding procedures will be addressed through updated policies and staff training.

Cooperation with External Authorities

When a safeguarding concern is investigated by external agencies such as the Local Authority, police, or CQC, all staff must cooperate fully.

Staff Responsibilities:

Failure to cooperate with safeguarding investigations can result in regulatory action against the organisation.

Support for Affected Individuals

Safeguarding incidents can be distressing for service users, families, and staff. It is essential to provide appropriate support.

  1. Support for the Service User
    • Ensure they feel safe and listened to.
    • Offer counselling or emotional support if needed.
    • Work with the Local Authority to implement a safeguarding protection plan.
  2. Support for Family Members and Advocates
    • Keep them informed of actions being taken, where appropriate.
    • Provide reassurance and guidance on external support options.
  3. Support for Staff
    • Any staff affected by the incident can access internal support.
    • If a staff member is wrongly accused, they must be supported throughout the investigation process.
    • Additional safeguarding training may be provided to strengthen staff knowledge.

Following these steps ensures that safeguarding incidents are handled professionally, efficiently, and in the best interests of the service user.

9. Recording and Documentation

Maintaining accurate and detailed records is a fundamental part of safeguarding. Proper documentation ensures transparency, accountability, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Staff at {{org_field_name}} must follow strict record-keeping procedures to ensure safeguarding concerns are documented and managed effectively.

Maintaining Accurate Records of Safeguarding Concerns and Responses

All safeguarding concerns must be documented clearly, accurately, and promptly. Proper records help to:

Steps for Recording a Safeguarding Concern:

  1. Complete a Safeguarding Report Form
    • Use the official safeguarding form provided by {{org_field_name}}.
    • Ensure all sections are completed with factual information.
  2. Include Essential Details:
    • Date, time, and location of the incident or concern.
    • Name and details of the service user involved.
    • Description of what was observed, heard, or disclosed (use exact words where possible).
    • Details of any witnesses present.
    • Immediate actions taken to protect the service user.
    • Names of individuals informed, including the Safeguarding Lead, Local Authority, or police.
  3. Use Objective Language
    • Avoid personal opinions, assumptions, or exaggerated language.
    • Report only facts, observations, and statements made by the service user or witness.
  4. Maintain Confidentiality
    • Store safeguarding records securely, following data protection laws.
    • Limit access to authorised personnel only.
    • Do not share safeguarding information with unauthorised individuals.
  5. Submit the Report Without Delay
    • Provide the completed report to the Safeguarding Lead or Registered Manager as soon as possible.
    • Reports can be submitted via:
      • Email: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}

If for whatever reason an email can’t be sent, please contact the Registered Manager:

  1. Phone: {{org_field_phone_no}}
  2. Out-of-hours contact: {{out_of_hours}}
  1. Follow-Up and Review
    • Ensure that safeguarding actions are documented and followed up.
    • Record any additional steps taken, such as referrals to external agencies or risk assessments completed.
    •  

Compliance with Regulation 17 – Good Governance for Record-Keeping

Regulation 17 – Good Governance under the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 requires care providers to maintain accurate, complete, and secure records for service users, staff, and safeguarding incidents.

Key Compliance Requirements:

Failure to maintain proper safeguarding records can result in regulatory action, including enforcement by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). All staff are responsible for ensuring that safeguarding concerns are accurately recorded and stored in compliance with legal and organisational requirements.

10. Accessibility of the Policy

Ensuring that the Safeguarding Adults Policy is accessible to all stakeholders is essential for promoting awareness, understanding, and compliance. Staff at {{org_field_name}} must ensure that service users, their representatives, and employees can easily access and understand the policy.

Availability to Service Users in Accessible Formats

Service users must be provided with safeguarding information in a format that suits their individual needs. This may include:

Staff Responsibilities:

Availability to Advocates, Family Members, and Legal Representatives

Advocates, family members, and those lawfully acting on behalf of service users must also have access to the Safeguarding Adults Policy to understand how concerns are managed.

Staff Responsibilities:

Availability to Staff Through Training and Documentation

All employees must be well-informed about the Safeguarding Adults Policy and their responsibilities under it.

Staff Responsibilities:

Review and Updates

The Safeguarding Adults Policy must remain up to date with legal, regulatory, and best practice changes.

Staff Responsibilities:

Failure to ensure accessibility of the Safeguarding Adults Policy can result in misunderstandings, reporting failures, and regulatory breaches. All staff must actively promote the policy’s availability and understanding across all levels of care.

11. Compliance and Monitoring

Ensuring compliance with safeguarding regulations and maintaining high standards of care requires ongoing monitoring, auditing, and continuous improvement. Staff at {{org_field_name}} must adhere to safeguarding procedures, participate in audits, and implement improvements based on findings.

Internal Auditing to Ensure Safeguarding Effectiveness

Regular internal audits must be conducted to assess how effectively safeguarding policies and procedures are being implemented. These audits help identify strengths, areas for improvement, and any safeguarding risks that need addressing.

Key Areas of Safeguarding Audits:

Staff Responsibilities:

Compliance with CQC Requirements and Regulations

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) sets regulatory standards for safeguarding under the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014. The organisation must demonstrate compliance with these regulations to maintain its registration and deliver safe services.

Key CQC Safeguarding Requirements:

Failure to comply with CQC safeguarding requirements can result in enforcement actions, including warnings, fines, or suspension of registration.

Staff Responsibilities:

Lessons Learned and Continuous Improvement

Safeguarding processes must evolve based on lessons learned from past incidents, audits, and feedback. Continuous improvement ensures that service users receive safe, high-quality care and that risks are minimised.

Ways to Implement Continuous Improvement:

Staff Responsibilities:

By maintaining a culture of continuous learning and improvement, {{org_field_name}} ensures that safeguarding measures remain effective and service users are protected from harm. All staff play a vital role in upholding these standards.


Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}}{{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on:
{{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date:
{{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.

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