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{{org_field_name}}
Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Safeguarding Adults Policy – Personal Care (Supported Living)
Scope: All staff, managers, volunteers, and contractors in {{org_field_name}}. This policy covers safeguarding of adults in supported living services who receive personal care. It does not cover children’s services or other regulated activities not provided by {{org_field_name}}. It is intended as a standalone policy for CQC registration purposes and will be reviewed at least annually.
{{org_field_name}} is registered with the Care Quality Commission to carry out the regulated activity of {{org_field_regulated_activity}} for {{org_field_service_users_bands}} in supported living settings.
Policy Statement
{{org_field_name}} is fully committed to safeguarding adults at risk from abuse and neglect. We have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse, unlawful discrimination, or improper treatment of people using our service. This includes neglect, degrading treatment, unnecessary or disproportionate restraint, or unjustified deprivation of liberty. Our aim is to ensure every person receiving personal care in our supported living service is safe, treated with dignity and respect, and protected from harm in line with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Fundamental Standards.
We will prevent abuse through robust procedures, awareness, and staff training, and respond swiftly and effectively to any concerns or allegations. All suspicions or incidents of abuse will be taken seriously and acted on without delay, with appropriate investigation and referral to external authorities (such as the local authority safeguarding team, police, and CQC) as required. There is no tolerance for inaction or concealment – safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
This policy complies with all relevant legislation and CQC requirements, including Regulation 13 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 (Safeguarding service users from abuse), the Care Act 2014, the CQC (Registration) Regulations 2009, and the Fundamental Standards. We uphold the six core principles of adult safeguarding from the Care Act 2014 – Empowerment, Prevention, Proportionality, Protection, Partnership, and Accountability – ensuring our approach is person-centred and outcome-focused. We recognize that many people we support have capacity to make their own decisions; having mental capacity does not preclude them from being at risk due to age, frailty or physical disability. We therefore work to protect adults with care and support needs with their consent and involvement whenever possible, while also fulfilling our duty to act when there is a risk of serious harm or where others may be endangered.
Definitions
Safeguarding: In this context, safeguarding means protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect – Safeguarding. It involves proactively preventing abuse, empowering individuals, and responding effectively if harm or abuse occurs.
Adult at Risk: As defined by the Care Act 2014, an “adult at risk” (or adult in need of safeguarding) is a person aged 18 or over who has needs for care and support, is experiencing or at risk of abuse or neglect, and as a result of those care and support needs is unable to protect themselves from the abuse or neglect. This policy is focused on such adults. Note that an adult with full mental capacity can still be an adult at risk if their disability, illness or age-related needs mean they cannot easily protect themselves from harm.
Abuse and Neglect: Abuse is a violation of a person’s human or civil rights by another person or persons. Abuse may consist of a single act or repeated acts. It may be intentional or unintentional and may occur through deliberate actions, poor practice, neglect or failure to act.
Abuse can occur:
- in the person’s own home;
- within a Supported Living setting;
- in the community;
- online;
- within personal or family relationships;
- between people using services;
- through the actions of staff, professionals, visitors, relatives or other people; or
- through organisational systems or poor practice.
The main forms of abuse and neglect recognised within adult safeguarding include:
- Physical abuse: including assault, hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, misuse of medication, inappropriate physical sanctions or inappropriate restraint. Indicators may include unexplained injuries, bruising, burns, fractures, repeated injuries, fearfulness around a particular person or explanations that are inconsistent with the injury.
- Domestic abuse: including physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or economic abuse, coercive or controlling behaviour and other abuse occurring between intimate partners, former partners or family members. Indicators may include fear of a partner or relative, controlling access to money or communication, frequent unexplained injuries, isolation, threats or the person appearing unable to make decisions freely.
- Sexual abuse: including rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, inappropriate touching, exposure to sexual material, sexual acts to which the person has not consented or was pressured into consenting, or sexual activity where the person lacks capacity to consent. Indicators may include unexplained genital injuries, sexually transmitted infections, torn or stained clothing, fear of a particular person, changes in behaviour or disclosure by the person.
- Psychological or emotional abuse: including threats, humiliation, intimidation, coercion, harassment, verbal abuse, bullying, cyber-bullying, isolation, controlling behaviour or unjustified withdrawal of supportive relationships or services. Indicators may include withdrawal, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, fearfulness, sleep disturbance, changes in behaviour or unusual dependence on another person.
- Financial or material abuse: including theft, fraud, scams, coercion in relation to money or property, misuse of benefits, bank accounts or possessions, misuse of powers of attorney or pressure concerning financial transactions. Indicators may include unexplained withdrawals, missing property, unpaid bills, sudden financial difficulty, unusual changes to financial arrangements or another person taking excessive control of finances.
- Modern slavery: including human trafficking, forced labour, slavery, servitude and exploitation. Indicators may include restricted movement, fear of authorities, another person retaining identity documents, signs of exploitation, poor living conditions, being forced to work or limited freedom to communicate independently.
- Discriminatory abuse: including harassment, unequal treatment or abuse connected with age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or another unlawful discriminatory ground. Indicators may include discriminatory language, harassment, exclusion, different standards of care or repeated derogatory comments.
- Organisational abuse: including neglect or poor practice resulting from the structure, routines, leadership, systems or culture of an organisation or service. Examples include rigid routines, inadequate staffing, poor medicines practice, lack of privacy, failure to respond to people’s individual needs or a culture in which poor practice is tolerated.
- Neglect and acts of omission: including failure to provide appropriate care, food, hydration, medicines, healthcare, assistance, heating, personal care, supervision or protection from avoidable harm. Indicators may include malnutrition, dehydration, pressure damage, poor hygiene, untreated health needs, repeated missed medication, unsafe living conditions or unexplained deterioration.
- Self-neglect: including behaviour where a person neglects their own personal hygiene, health, nutrition, medicines, safety or environment, including hoarding where this creates a significant risk. Indicators may include severe deterioration in personal hygiene, untreated medical conditions, unsafe living conditions, malnutrition, dehydration, accumulation of possessions or repeated refusal of essential support.
Different types of abuse may occur together. The absence of physical injury does not mean that abuse has not occurred.
Staff must remain professionally curious and must report concerns even where they do not have proof that abuse has taken place. It is not the responsibility of frontline staff to investigate or determine whether an allegation is substantiated before reporting it.
Personal Care: Personal care is a CQC-regulated activity defined as providing practical assistance with daily living tasks such as eating, drinking, washing, dressing, toileting, oral care, or care of the skin, hair and nails (excluding cosmetic grooming) for individuals who cannot perform these tasks themselves due to old age, illness, or disability. In our context, personal care is delivered to people in their own homes (supported living settings). It specifically does not include the provision of accommodation as part of care – rather, personal care is provided under a separate agreement from the housing. (For example, our service provides home care to tenants in supported living, unlike a care home where accommodation and care are combined.) Personal care must be delivered where the person is living at the time, and for supported living this means in the person’s flat or home in the community.
Supported Living: A service model in which individuals live in their own home or tenancy (often with a housing agreement) and receive care and/or support separately. In supported living, the landlord (housing provider) is usually a different entity from the care provider, and there are separate agreements for accommodation and for care. Supported living allows people to have control over their housing and receive flexible support to meet their needs. This policy is written specifically for a supported living context – meaning the adults we support are tenants or householders, not residents of a care home, and our regulated activity is the provision of personal care in their own homes.
Mental Capacity: The ability to make a specific decision at a specific time. Under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, adults are presumed to have capacity unless assessed otherwise. Many people we support will have capacity to make decisions about their safety and care. Where an adult lacks capacity regarding a safeguarding matter, we will act in their best interests and involve appropriate representatives. Even where an adult has capacity, we will seek consent for raising safeguarding concerns; however, if the adult or others remain at risk of serious harm, or a crime has been committed, we may need to report concerns to authorities regardless of consent, in line with the Care Act statutory guidance on safeguarding (ensuring the person is informed and supported throughout).
Nominated Individual (NI): The senior manager nominated by the provider ({{org_field_name}}) and registered with CQC as responsible for supervising the regulated activity. The NI acts as a main point of contact with CQC and ensures the service meets its legal obligations. They have overall accountability for safeguarding in the organisation at the executive level.
Registered Manager (RM): The person registered with CQC to manage the day-to-day carrying on of the regulated activity (personal care). The RM ({{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}) is responsible for the operational implementation of this policy – they are typically the “Safeguarding Lead” within the service, coordinating safeguarding reports and responses. (In our organisation, the same individual is both the Nominated Individual and Registered Manager – see Conflicts of Interest section below for how we handle any concerns involving this person.)
Staff: All employees, agency workers, bank staff, and volunteers of {{org_field_name}} who provide care or support services. All staff have a responsibility to protect people from harm and to follow this policy and related procedures.
Whistleblowing: “Making a disclosure in the public interest” – i.e. reporting concerns about wrongdoing or poor practice within the organisation (such as abuse, neglect, or regulatory breaches) to those who can address it. A whistleblower (the person raising the concern) has legal protection from retaliation under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. In care settings, staff are encouraged to raise concerns internally or to external bodies if needed, without fear of reprisal (see
Whistleblowing section below).
Legal and Regulatory Framework
This policy has regard to legislation and regulatory guidance applicable at the date shown in the document-control information and will be reviewed when relevant legislation or guidance changes.
- Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 – Regulation 13 (Safeguarding service users from abuse and improper treatment): This regulation requires care providers to protect people from abuse and establish effective systems to prevent and investigate abuse. Providers must have a zero tolerance of abuse and improper treatment, including neglect, degrading treatment or unnecessary restraint. We understand CQC will refuse registration if we cannot demonstrate compliance with Regulation 13. We meet this by having robust policies (like this one), training, and processes to stop abuse before it happens and to act immediately if it does. Breaches of Regulation 13 can lead to prosecution if they result in avoidable harm or exposure to significant risk. (Note: We also adhere to related fundamental standards such as Regulation 10 Dignity and Respect, Regulation 11 Need for Consent, Regulation 12 Safe Care and Treatment, etc., which complement safeguarding.)
- Care Quality Commission (Registration) Regulations 2009 – Regulation 18 (Notification of Other Incidents): This law mandates that certain incidents must be reported to CQC, including any abuse or allegation of abuse involving a service user. {{org_field_name}} will notify CQC without delay about any safeguarding incidents or allegations in line with these regulations. We use the required CQC notification forms for this purpose. We also understand our duty under Regulation 18 to notify CQC of other events like serious injuries or police involvement, and under Regulation 12 to have an up-to-date Statement of Purpose that includes safeguarding arrangements.
- Care Act 2014: This is the key legislation for adult safeguarding in England. It places duties on local authorities to make inquiries (Section 42 enquiries) when an adult with care and support needs is at risk of abuse and unable to protect themselves. As a care provider, we have a duty to cooperate with local authorities in any safeguarding enquiry and to share information appropriately. The Care Act’s statutory guidance outlines how organisations should work together and adhere to the six safeguarding principles (Empowerment, Prevention, Proportionality, Protection, Partnership, Accountability). We follow this guidance, including the principle of “Making Safeguarding Personal” (i.e. person-led, outcome-focused responses). Under the Care Act, Safeguarding Adults Boards (SABs) set local multi-agency procedures which we follow (e.g. how to report a concern to the Council’s safeguarding team, and how enquiries are conducted). We ensure our internal procedures align with the local authority’s safeguarding protocols and timescales.
- Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA): {{org_field_name}} will comply with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and its Code of Practice whenever a person may lack capacity to make a specific decision. Capacity will be presumed unless established otherwise and must be considered in relation to the particular decision at the particular time. Where a person lacks capacity, decisions made on their behalf must be made in their best interests and using the least restrictive available option.
Where safeguarding decisions are required, the person’s capacity to make the relevant decision will be considered. Where the person lacks capacity, appropriate best-interest decision-making will be undertaken and advocacy or other lawful representation will be involved where required.
{{org_field_name}} recognises that the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards authorisation process applies to hospitals and registered care homes and is not the ordinary authorisation route for people living in Supported Living arrangements.
Where care arrangements in Supported Living may constitute a deprivation of liberty, {{org_field_name}} will:
- consider the current legal definition of deprivation of liberty;
- consider the nature, type, intensity, duration, effect and manner of implementation of relevant restrictions;
- take account of the person’s wishes, feelings and any objection;
- consider the extent of supervision and restrictions;
- consider the person’s ordinary life and individual circumstances;
- identify less restrictive alternatives;
- ensure restrictions are necessary and proportionate;
- involve relevant health and social care professionals; and
- seek appropriate legal or professional advice regarding the relevant community deprivation-of-liberty authorisation route, including application to the Court of Protection where required.
Staff must not assume that a restriction is lawful merely because it is included within a care plan, risk assessment or best-interest decision.
- Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and Protection of Freedoms Act 2012: These provisions underpin safeguarding arrangements relating to regulated activity and the Disclosure and Barring Service. {{org_field_name}} will obtain the appropriate level of DBS check for each role in accordance with current eligibility requirements. Where a role constitutes regulated activity with adults and is legally eligible, the appropriate Adults’ Barred List check will also be obtained. {{org_field_name}} will not knowingly permit a person who is legally barred from regulated activity with adults to undertake such activity. Appropriate DBS referrals will be made where the statutory referral criteria are met.
- Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998: Protects staff who whistleblow about wrongdoing. In compliance, our policy encourages staff to raise concerns openly and guarantees protection from reprisals when concerns are raised as a genuine concern or protected disclosure in accordance with applicable whistleblowing law. (We provide more detail in the Whistleblowing section.) All care providers are required by CQC to have whistleblowing procedures and to make them known to staff.
- Equality Act 2010: Protects individuals from discrimination, harassment or victimisation on the basis of protected characteristics (age, disability, sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc.). Under Regulation 13, any discriminatory abuse is forbidden. We ensure that our safeguarding approach is equitable and inclusive. We do not tolerate any abuse that targets a person’s protected characteristic (such incidents would be treated as both safeguarding and potential hate crime).
- Human Rights Act 1998: We acknowledge that abuse and neglect can amount to breaches of human rights (e.g. Article 2 – right to life, Article 3 – freedom from torture or degrading treatment, Article 5 – liberty and security, Article 8 – private and family life). Our care delivery and this policy aim to uphold the human rights of service users. Any practice that could infringe on rights (such as restraint or restrictions) is carefully scrutinised and only used in line with the law and best practice.
- Data Protection Act 2018 (UK GDPR): While confidentiality is important, this law (and GDPR) allows the sharing of personal information for safeguarding purposes without consent if necessary to protect individuals at risk. We handle personal data in accordance with data protection principles, but we will share information with relevant authorities (e.g. social services, police, CQC) where required to prevent or investigate abuse. We document decisions to share information and ensure it’s done on a need-to-know basis in line with government safeguarding information-sharing guidance.
All staff are expected to be familiar with these legal provisions. Management will ensure the service stays up-to-date with any changes in laws or guidance (e.g. new statutory guidance from CQC or updates to the Care Act guidance). Compliance with this framework is mandatory, and failure to adhere to safeguarding law or this policy may result in disciplinary action and regulatory consequences.
Restraint and Restrictive Practice
{{org_field_name}} recognises that restraint is not limited to physically holding a person.
For the purposes of Regulation 13, restraint or control may occur where a person:
- uses or threatens to use force to secure an act that the person resists; or
- restricts the person’s liberty of movement, whether or not the person actively resists.
Restraint may include:
- physically holding a person;
- blocking or physically preventing movement;
- preventing a person from leaving a room or area;
- restricting access to exits;
- mechanical restraint;
- inappropriate use of furniture or equipment to prevent movement;
- removing mobility aids to restrict movement;
- chemical restraint, including inappropriate use of medication primarily to control behaviour;
- threatening physical force to obtain compliance; or
- another restriction that limits the person’s freedom of movement.
Staff must recognise that a measure may constitute restraint even if:
- it is described as being for the person’s safety;
- it forms part of a routine;
- the person does not actively resist; or
- staff do not intend it to be punitive.
Care or treatment must not involve restraint unless it is:
- necessary to prevent a risk of harm to the person or another person;
- a proportionate response to that risk;
- lawful;
- the least restrictive reasonably available option; and
- used for no longer than necessary.
Restraint must never be used:
- as punishment;
- for staff convenience;
- because staffing arrangements are inadequate;
- to enforce unnecessary routines;
- to intimidate a person; or
- simply because a person makes a choice with which staff disagree.
Where restrictive interventions are foreseeable, they must be:
- individually assessed;
- included in the person’s care plan and risk assessment;
- consistent with the person’s rights and communication needs;
- regularly reviewed; and
- reduced or removed wherever a less restrictive option can safely be used.
Any unplanned or emergency restraint must be:
- stopped as soon as it is safe to do so;
- reported immediately;
- recorded as an incident;
- reviewed by the Registered Manager or Safeguarding Lead; and
- considered to determine whether a safeguarding referral, healthcare assessment or other external notification is required.
Any unauthorised, unnecessary, disproportionate, punitive or degrading restraint will be treated as a safeguarding concern.
Regulation 13 also requires that no person is deprived of liberty for the purpose of receiving care or treatment without lawful authority.
Roles and Responsibilities
Board of Directors / Registered Provider: The organisation’s governing body (or owner, if a sole provider) holds ultimate accountability for safeguarding. They must foster a culture of safety and ensure resources and systems are in place to protect people. The board (or provider) must approve this policy, review safeguarding performance regularly, and ensure any lessons learned from incidents are implemented. Overall responsibility for safeguarding lies at the highest level of the organisation.
Nominated Individual (NI): {{org_field_nominated_individual_first_name}} {{org_field_nominated_individual_last_name}} is the Nominated Individual for {{org_field_name}}, responsible for supervising the management of our personal care service (as per CQC registration). The NI ensures that the service meets all CQC requirements and relevant legislation on an ongoing basis. Specific responsibilities include: promoting a strong safeguarding culture, making sure robust procedures (like this policy) are implemented, and that safeguarding is discussed at board/management level. The NI liaises with CQC on safeguarding matters and notifications. They must ensure the Registered Manager and all staff are supported and that any safeguarding incident is properly addressed. (In our organisation, the NI and RM roles are held by the same person – see Conflicts of Interest section for how we handle oversight in that scenario.)
Safeguarding Lead and Key Contacts
The designated Safeguarding Lead for {{org_field_name}} is:
- Safeguarding lead name: {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_name}}
- Safeguarding lead role: {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_role}}
- Telephone: {{org_field_phone_no}}
- Email: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}
- Out-of-hours/on-call telephone: {{out_of_hours}}
- Emergency services: 999
- Police non-emergency: 101
If the Registered Manager/Safeguarding Lead is unavailable, the designated deputy or senior person on call will assume responsibility for coordinating immediate safeguarding action.
Staff must not delay reporting because the Safeguarding Lead is unavailable.
Where:
- the Safeguarding Lead is implicated in the concern;
- the Registered Manager or Nominated Individual is implicated;
- there is a conflict of interest;
- management cannot be contacted; or
- staff reasonably believe that internal reporting will not protect the adult, the concern must be escalated using the external safeguarding contacts and management-allegation procedure contained in this policy.
Registered Manager (RM): {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}, as the CQC-registered manager, is the designated Safeguarding Lead for daily operations. The RM is responsible for the practical implementation of safeguarding procedures.
Key duties include:
- Prevention: Ensuring safe recruitment (DBS checks, references), staff training on safeguarding, and that individuals’ care plans include measures to mitigate risks of abuse.
- Awareness: Making sure all staff know how to recognise and report abuse, and that people using the service (and their families where appropriate) know how to voice concerns. Current guidance on raising concerns should be accessible to everyone.
- Responding to Concerns: Receiving internal reports of safeguarding concerns from staff, and taking immediate appropriate action (e.g. ensuring the person is safe, contacting emergency services if needed, reporting to external agencies). The RM co-ordinates internal investigations and ensures referrals to the local authority safeguarding team are made without delay where criteria are met. They also ensure that any allegation of abuse is reported to CQC and other regulators as required.
- Support and Oversight: Providing support to any person affected by abuse (including alleged victims, and also staff or alleged perpetrators as appropriate), maintaining clear records of incidents and actions, and reporting to the NI/Board on safeguarding matters (trends, incidents, etc.). The RM should also foster a culture where staff feel comfortable reporting concerns (open-door policy).
- Multi-Agency Working: Liaising with external bodies – attending strategy meetings or case conferences called by the local Safeguarding Adults Board, cooperating with police or social workers in investigations, and implementing any protection plans or improvement actions that result.
- Policy and Compliance: Keeping this policy up to date (with NI approval), and ensuring the service learns from any safeguarding incidents (e.g. updating training or practices). The RM should regularly audit safeguarding practices and compliance with Reg 13 and related standards.
If the Registered Manager is unavailable (e.g. on leave), a deputy manager or other senior staff member will be appointed to act as Safeguarding Lead in their absence. All staff will be informed of who is the lead at any given time.
All Staff and Volunteers: Every staff member at {{org_field_name}} has a duty to safeguard the wellbeing of service users. This includes permanent staff, agency staff, and volunteers. Their responsibilities are:
- Understand and Follow Policy: Staff must read and adhere to this Safeguarding Adults Policy and related procedures. They should also be aware of the signs of abuse and how to respond.
- Vigilance: Provide care in a manner that respects and protects people’s rights. Be alert to potential indicators of abuse or neglect (such as unexplained injuries, signs of fear, sudden changes in behaviour or finances, etc.).
- Reporting: Report immediately any concern, suspicion, or disclosure of abuse. Staff must report concerns to their line manager or directly to the Registered Manager without delay. If the concern involves or implicates the manager (or if for any reason staff feel unable to report internally), they must follow the procedure to report to the next appropriate authority (see “Conflicts of Interest” and “Whistleblowing” sections). There is no “wrong” way to raise a genuine concern – if in doubt, speak up. No staff member will ever be penalised for reporting a safeguarding concern in good faith, even if it is not substantiated.
- Act to Protect: If a person is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical attention, staff are expected to call emergency services (999) right away, then inform management. Ensuring the immediate safety of the person is the first priority. For example, this might include separating an alleged perpetrator from the vulnerable person (if safe to do so), administering first aid, or staying to provide comfort and reassurance. Staff should then preserve any evidence (if a crime might have occurred) as far as possible and await further instructions.
- Confidentiality and Respect: Handle information about safeguarding concerns discretely and share it only with the right people (e.g. managers or external professionals involved in investigation). They must also maintain a professional relationship and not discuss allegations openly. Meanwhile, staff should support the adult at risk by reassuring them, listening to their wishes, and involving them in decisions about their protection whenever possible.
- Training and Development: Attend and participate in all required safeguarding training sessions. This includes initial induction training on safeguarding (which is mandatory for all new staff) and regular refresher courses at intervals determined by the organisation (at least annually). Training covers recognizing abuse, reporting procedures, the Care Act principles, mental capacity, and our internal policies. Staff are also encouraged to seek clarification or additional training if they feel unsure about any aspect of safeguarding.
- Professional Boundaries: Maintain clear boundaries and do not engage in any behaviour that could be misinterpreted as abusive. Report any observed boundary violations by colleagues.
- Whistleblowing: Use the whistleblowing channels if they feel concerns have not been properly addressed or if they feel unable to report through normal line management (see Whistleblowing section).
By fulfilling these responsibilities, staff and management work together to create a safe service. We will ensure that safeguarding responsibility is written into job descriptions and discussed in supervision. Regular staff meetings will include safeguarding as a standing agenda item, to reinforce knowledge and discuss any issues or lessons learned.
Safeguarding Reporting Quick Reference
Step 1 – Immediate Danger or Medical Emergency
If the person is:
- in immediate danger;
- seriously injured;
- in need of urgent medical attention; or
- a crime is in progress,
call 999 immediately.
Take reasonable steps to protect the person without placing yourself or others at unnecessary risk.
Step 2 – Listen and Protect
Where a person discloses abuse:
- remain calm;
- listen carefully;
- take what they say seriously;
- do not ask leading or investigative questions;
- do not promise secrecy;
- explain that information may need to be shared to help keep them or others safe;
- preserve evidence where relevant; and
- record the person’s own words as accurately as possible.
Step 3 – Report Immediately
Contact:
Safeguarding lead name: {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_name}}
Safeguarding lead role: {{org_field_safeguarding_lead_role}}
Telephone: {{org_field_phone_no}}
Email: {{org_field_registered_manager_email}}
Out of hours: {{out_of_hours}}
Do not wait until the end of the shift or the following working day.
Step 4 – If Management Is Implicated
If the concern involves:
- the Registered Manager;
- Safeguarding Lead;
- Nominated Individual;
- Director;
- owner; or
- another person who would normally receive the report,
do not report the concern to the person who is implicated.
Report directly to:
Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Team:
{{org_field_local_authority_authority_name}}
Telephone: {{org_field_local_authority_phone_number}}
Email: {{org_field_local_authority_authority_email}}
Online safeguarding referral:
{{org_field_local_authority_information_link}}
Out-of-hours/Emergency Duty Team:
{{org_field_local_authority_out_of_hours_phone_number}}
Where a crime is suspected:
- emergency: 999
- non-emergency police: 101
Concerns about the quality or safety of the regulated service may also be raised with CQC.
Step 5 – Record the Concern
Record:
- what was seen, heard or disclosed;
- the person’s own words;
- date and time;
- location;
- people involved;
- witnesses;
- immediate actions taken; and
- who the concern was reported to.
Do not investigate the allegation yourself.
Step 6 – Management Action
The Safeguarding Lead or appropriate independent person will:
- ensure immediate safety;
- assess immediate risks;
- refer to the Local Authority where required;
- contact police where appropriate;
- consider CQC notification requirements;
- preserve evidence;
- support the adult;
- consider staff-management measures where an employee is implicated;
- cooperate with external enquiries; and
- maintain appropriate records.
Step 7 – Consent and Involvement
Where practicable and safe, the adult’s:
- views;
- wishes;
- desired outcomes; and
- consent
will be sought and considered.
A refusal of consent does not automatically prevent action where there is a lawful reason to act without consent.
Important
If in doubt, report the concern. Staff must not investigate or decide that abuse has occurred before raising a safeguarding concern.
Safeguarding Procedures
1. Prevention Measures
We believe prevention of abuse is as important as responding to it. Key preventive measures include:
- Safe Recruitment: {{org_field_name}} will operate robust recruitment procedures in accordance with Regulation 19 and applicable safeguarding requirements. Recruitment checks will include identity, full employment history, references, right to work, qualifications and competence where relevant, and the appropriate level of DBS check for the role. Where the role constitutes regulated activity with adults and is eligible for an Adults’ Barred List check, that check will also be obtained. Recruitment concerns and discrepancies will be investigated before a person is permitted to undertake duties for which their suitability has not been established.
- Training and Awareness: As noted, all staff receive safeguarding induction training and regular refreshers. Training covers types and signs of abuse, how to respond to disclosures, and their duty to report. We also provide scenario-based discussions and circulate relevant guidance updates so that staff remain alert.
- Policies and Culture: We maintain clear policies not only on safeguarding, but related areas such as Professional Boundaries, Code of Conduct, Whistleblowing, and Use of Restraint. Management fosters an open culture where abuse or poor care will not be tolerated and staff are comfortable reporting mistakes or concerns. Safeguarding is a standing item in team meetings and supervisions, to encourage discussion.
- Service User Empowerment: We inform people using our service (and their families/representatives where appropriate) about their right to be safe and how to report concerns. Upon starting services with us, each person receives information (in an accessible format suited to their needs) about what abuse is and who to tell if they experience or suspect it. We encourage people to speak up and we support them to make their own decisions (Empowerment principle). We seek feedback regularly and treat complaints or comments as potential indicators of issues, taking them seriously.
- Risk Assessments and Care Planning: Each individual’s support plan includes an assessment of any risks of abuse or self-neglect, and measures to mitigate these. For example, if a person has cognitive impairment that might make them vulnerable to financial exploitation, the care plan will include how we support them with managing money safely (perhaps involving appointees or regular monitoring). Plans to manage challenging behaviour are developed to reduce the need for restraint or restrictive practices – any such measures must be properly authorised and reviewed to prevent misuse. We avoid one-to-one care situations that could increase risk (where possible), and if personal care must be done behind closed doors, we train staff on maintaining transparency (e.g. informing colleagues, ensuring doors can be opened if needed, etc.).
- Partnership Working: We maintain links with community professionals (social workers, community nurses, GPs) and with our local Safeguarding Adults Board. We stay informed of local safeguarding initiatives and resources (for instance, local authority contacts and referral processes are clearly posted for staff). By working in partnership, we help prevent abuse (e.g. by early intervention if we notice someone struggling, or by seeking advice promptly when needed). We also check that any services we refer people to (like day centres or other carers) have appropriate safeguarding standards.
2. Recognising Abuse
Staff must be vigilant for signs and indicators of abuse or neglect. These can vary by type of abuse, but general warning signs include: unexplained bruises or injuries (possible physical abuse), fearful or withdrawn behaviour (possible emotional abuse), sudden loss of money or basic provisions (financial abuse), untreated medical issues or poor hygiene (neglect), an overly controlling partner or frequent arguments at home (domestic abuse), etc. We provide guidance and training on these indicators. If a service user discloses to a staff member that they are being abused, the staff member will listen calmly and take it seriously. They will reassure the person, avoid probing questions, and not promise to keep secrets (explaining that they will inform the appropriate people to get help). They will then follow the reporting steps below.
3. Reporting a Safeguarding Concern (Internal)
When any staff member suspects abuse, witnesses an incident, or receives a disclosure, they must report it immediately to the Registered Manager (or their line manager/designated lead if the RM is not available). This should be done as soon as possible on the same day – ideally in person or by phone for urgency, followed by a written record. Staff should not delay reporting, even if they only have a suspicion or minor concern; we would rather act on false alarms than miss a genuine case of abuse. If the allegation or concern implicates the Registered Manager or Nominated Individual, staff must not report to that person – instead, they should follow the procedure outlined in the “Conflicts of Interest” section of this policy to report directly to an external authority (e.g. local safeguarding team or CQC). All staff are reminded that any form of abuse or allegation of abuse must be reported, regardless of who the alleged perpetrator is (it could be a staff member, another service user, a family member, a visitor, or even abuse by someone not connected to our service like a scammer or neighbour – in all cases, we act to protect the adult).
4. Immediate Actions by Manager
Upon receiving a report or observing an incident, the Registered Manager (or senior on duty) will first ensure the adult’s immediate safety. This may involve separating the alleged perpetrator from the adult at risk (e.g. assigning different staff, or if another service user is causing harm, providing additional supervision). If medical attention is needed, the manager will call a doctor or emergency services. If a crime is suspected (for example, physical assault, sexual abuse, theft, wilful neglect, or domestic abuse), the manager will contact the police immediately, as criminal investigation can be crucial and evidence must be preserved. We will preserve evidence where applicable – e.g. not washing clothes or cleaning up before police advise, keeping records of exactly what was said by whom, etc. The manager documents all immediate actions taken.
5. Referral to External Agencies:
Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Team
Where a safeguarding concern requires referral, {{org_field_name}} will make the referral to the Safeguarding Adults Team for the Local Authority responsible for the geographic area in which the person is receiving the service.
The Local Authority safeguarding contact for this service is:
- Local Authority: {{org_field_local_authority_authority_name}}
- Safeguarding Adults telephone: {{org_field_local_authority_phone_number}}
- Safeguarding Adults email: {{org_field_local_authority_authority_email}}
- Online safeguarding referral: {{org_field_local_authority_information_link}}
- Out-of-hours/Emergency Duty Team: {{org_field_local_authority_out_of_hours_phone_number}}
A safeguarding referral will be made without unnecessary delay where the circumstances require referral under the relevant Local Authority safeguarding procedure.
The referral will include relevant information such as:
- details of the adult;
- nature of the concern;
- when and where the concern arose;
- immediate risks;
- actions already taken;
- the adult’s views and desired outcomes where known;
- consent and capacity considerations;
- details of the alleged person responsible where known; and
- contact details for {{org_field_name}}.
The Local Authority is responsible for deciding whether the criteria for a Section 42 enquiry are met and what safeguarding action is required.
{{org_field_name}} will cooperate fully with any Local Authority safeguarding enquiry, including:
- providing relevant records;
- attending safeguarding meetings;
- contributing to risk assessments;
- implementing agreed protection measures; and
- providing updates where required.
Police
Where a crime is suspected, the police will be contacted where appropriate.
- Emergency: 999
- Non-emergency: 101
Reporting to the police will not be delayed while waiting for completion of an internal investigation.
Care Quality Commission
The Registered Manager or other authorised person will separately consider whether the incident or allegation must be notified to CQC under the Care Quality Commission (Registration) Regulations 2009.
Where a statutory CQC notification is required, it will be submitted without delay in accordance with the applicable notification requirement.
The CQC notification process is separate from:
- the Local Authority safeguarding referral;
- police reporting;
- the organisation’s internal incident procedure; and
- any disciplinary process.
Where appropriate, {{org_field_name}} will also consider whether information or referrals are required to:
- commissioners;
- the Disclosure and Barring Service;
- professional regulators; or
- another relevant statutory body.
6. Recording and Documentation
The staff member who first responded will make a factual written record as soon as possible, detailing what they observed or what the adult said (in their own words as far as possible), and any immediate actions taken. The Registered Manager will ensure that all steps taken are recorded in a confidential Safeguarding log. This log will include dates, times, people involved, summary of incident, decisions made (and rationale), referrals made (with names of persons spoken to at external agencies), and any follow-up actions required. All records will be kept secure and only shared with those who have a legitimate need to know. These records may be important for any investigation, so accuracy and detail are important. We comply with data protection law when keeping these records, but note that safeguarding records can be shared for investigative purposes with relevant authorities under Schedule 1 of the Data Protection Act 2018.
7. Internal Investigation and Disciplinary Action
The responsibility for investigating the abuse allegation usually lies with the local authority (and police if criminal). We will not unduly interfere with external investigations – for example, we will not conduct formal interviews with the alleged perpetrator or victim about the abuse before the authorities, as this could compromise evidence. However, we still have a duty to investigate internally as needed for our own management. Typically: if a staff member is accused, we will suspend them on a precautionary basis (on full pay) pending investigation outcomes, to remove any potential risk. We will then conduct an internal investigation (in coordination with the external enquiry) focusing on whether our policies were followed and what changes are needed to prevent recurrence. Disciplinary proceedings against staff will be undertaken once sufficient facts are gathered, and can result in sanctions up to dismissal and DBS referral, irrespective of any police action. If the allegation is against another service user or a member of the person’s family, we will work with the local authority to address risks (for instance, adjusting how we deliver care or involving other agencies to support that other individual). Throughout the process, the adult at risk’s wishes and wellbeing remain central – we involve them (or their advocate) in discussions about next steps, and keep them (and/or their family if appropriate) informed of developments as much as possible.
8. Supporting the Adult at Risk: We ensure the person affected receives appropriate support. This might include emotional support (comfort, reassurance, or referral to counselling), medical attention, or the involvement of an advocate. If the person has communication needs, we will arrange interpreters or other communication support during the process. The adult’s consent and choices will guide what steps are taken – for example, if they have capacity and do not want certain information shared or do not want support, we respect their views to the extent possible, while explaining our responsibilities. (If we must override their wishes to prevent further harm, we will explain and handle this sensitively, focusing on their safety.) We aim to apply the principle of Making Safeguarding Personal, meaning the adult is involved in decisions and their desired outcomes are considered. After an incident, a key worker or manager will check in with the individual regularly and ensure they feel safe and informed about what is happening.
Consent, Capacity and Information Sharing During Safeguarding
{{org_field_name}} will follow the principles of Making Safeguarding Personal. Safeguarding action will be person-led and outcome-focused wherever possible.
Where practicable and safe to do so, the adult will be asked:
- what has happened from their perspective;
- what they want to happen;
- what outcomes they want from the safeguarding process;
- who they want to support them;
- whether they consent to information being shared; and
- how they wish to be involved and kept informed.
Where the adult has capacity to make the relevant safeguarding decision, their wishes will normally be respected.
If an adult with capacity does not consent to a safeguarding referral or other intervention, staff will:
- listen to and understand their reasons;
- explain relevant risks;
- explain what support is available;
- consider whether risks can be reduced in another way;
- record the person’s decision;
- continue to offer appropriate support; and
- keep the situation under review where appropriate.
However, a refusal of consent does not automatically prevent information from being shared or action from being taken.
Information may need to be shared without consent where there is a lawful and proportionate reason, including where:
- another adult is at risk of abuse or neglect;
- a child may be at risk;
- a serious crime may have occurred;
- there is a significant risk of serious harm;
- the person may be subject to coercion or undue influence;
- the adult lacks capacity to make the relevant decision and action is in their best interests;
- a statutory duty requires disclosure; or
- there is another overriding public-interest justification.
Where information is shared without the adult’s consent:
- only relevant and necessary information will be shared;
- information will be shared with appropriate persons or bodies;
- the reason for sharing will be recorded;
- the decision will be proportionate to the risk; and
- the adult will normally be informed unless doing so would increase risk or prejudice an investigation.
Where there is reason to doubt the person’s capacity to make a particular safeguarding decision, capacity will be assessed in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
A person must not be treated as lacking capacity merely because they:
- make an unwise decision;
- decline safeguarding support;
- remain in a relationship others consider risky; or
- make choices with which staff disagree.
Where the adult lacks capacity for the relevant decision, any decision made on their behalf must:
- be made in their best interests;
- take account of their wishes, feelings, beliefs and values;
- involve relevant persons where appropriate and lawful;
- use the least restrictive available option; and
- be appropriately recorded.
Independent advocacy will be arranged or facilitated where the relevant statutory criteria are met or where advocacy would otherwise assist the adult to participate effectively.
9. Learning Lessons and Ongoing Improvement
After any safeguarding case, once resolved, the Registered Manager and team will reflect on what happened. We will hold a debrief meeting to identify any lessons learned – e.g. could we have spotted signs earlier, do staff need more training, does a particular policy need strengthening? We will implement changes as needed (update procedures, provide additional training or supervision, etc.). All such incidents and learning points will be summarised for our quality assurance and shared with the team so that improvements are made. The Nominated Individual/Board will also review all safeguarding incidents to ensure the management responded appropriately and to provide any additional support or resources needed.
10. Compliance and Audit
The Registered Manager will maintain a safeguarding incidents log and ensure that all notifications to CQC and the local authority have been made. We will periodically audit our safeguarding practices (for example, checking that all staff have up-to-date training, testing staff knowledge in supervision, or doing spot checks that care plans include up-to-date risk assessments). The NI or a senior person not involved in day-to-day care will also audit compliance to ensure objectivity. We will use CQC’s own feedback and inspection reports to improve; safeguarding is a key part of CQC’s assessment under the Safe and Well-Led key questions, so we prepare and act accordingly.
By following these procedures, {{org_field_name}} seeks to ensure that any hint of abuse is swiftly addressed and people in our care are kept safe. Our approach is always to act in the best interests of the adult at risk, using common sense, compassion, and professionalism in line with the law and good practice.
Whistleblowing
{{org_field_name}} is committed to an open and transparent culture where staff feel able to raise any concerns about wrongdoing, risk, or malpractice – including concerns about possible abuse, unsafe practices, or if management is not addressing problems. We have a separate Whistleblowing Policy that provides detailed guidance, but key points are included here as they relate to safeguarding:
- Duty to Report: All employees have not only the right, but the duty, to report any serious concerns about the care being provided or about the behaviour of colleagues or managers. This includes situations where a staff member feels that earlier reports through normal channels have not been taken seriously or adequately addressed. Whistleblowing can cover concerns about abuse, neglect, or any breach of legal obligations.
- Protected Disclosure: If an employee raises a genuine concern in the public interest (for example, reporting that a vulnerable adult is being harmed or that the service is covering up abuse), the law (Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998) protects them from dismissal or detriment for doing so. {{org_field_name}} will not tolerate any form of retaliation against a whistleblower. Any staff member who tries to intimidate or victimize someone for raising a concern will face disciplinary action.
- Process for Whistleblowing: Staff are encouraged first to follow our internal reporting procedures (report to line manager or RM) for any concern. However, if the staff member feels unable to do so – for instance, if the concern involves the management or owners, or if previous reports have been ignored – they should escalate the concern to someone higher within the organisation or use another channel. This could mean contacting the Nominated Individual (if that is a different person), or reporting directly to an external prescribed body. In health and social care, CQC is a prescribed body that staff can approach with concerns about care quality or safety. We explicitly inform staff that they can contact CQC to report concerns at any time, especially if they feel we are not addressing an issue. CQC’s contact details (phone 03000 616161 and their online form) are provided in our Whistleblowing Policy and on posters in the office. Other prescribed bodies could include the local authority safeguarding team, or the Health and Safety Executive, etc., depending on the nature of the issue. The NHS/Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Board can also be contacted directly by staff if the concern is about abuse and they think the normal route is compromised.
- Confidentiality: A whistleblower can request that their identity be kept confidential. We will make every effort to do so while investigating the concern. Staff can also raise concerns anonymously, though this might make it harder to investigate or give feedback. CQC also allows anonymous reporting. While anonymous reports are still taken seriously, employees are encouraged to give their name and assurance of protection so that proper inquiries can be made.
- Response to Whistleblowing: When a concern is raised, the organisation (usually the RM or NI, unless implicated) will acknowledge it, consider it seriously, and investigate as appropriate. We will provide feedback to the whistleblower on the outcome if possible (while respecting any confidentiality of others involved). If the whistleblower is not satisfied with the response, they are free to escalate the issue externally. We will also support the whistleblower emotionally, acknowledging that it can be difficult to speak up. The whistleblowing policy gives information on agencies that can advise staff, such as the independent whistleblowing charity Protect (formerly Public Concern at Work) or trade unions.
- Required Procedures: We meet CQC’s expectation that all care providers have whistleblowing procedures accessible to staff. We regularly remind staff about these in training and via signage (for example, a “Speak Up” poster with key contacts). By doing so, we ensure staff know that raising concerns is part of our professional duty and is welcomed. We would rather hear about a concern early (even if it turns out to be a misunderstanding) than have it go unreported.
In summary, any staff member who is worried that something is wrong – whether it’s potential abuse by a colleague, an unsafe practice like mismanagement of medications, or a cover-up of an incident – should speak up. We guarantee they will be supported and that their concern will be investigated impartially. Whistleblowing is a vital fail-safe in safeguarding adults, ensuring that even if normal processes falter (for example, if a manager inappropriately downplays an incident), there is another route to protect those at risk.
11. Managing Allegations Against the Registered Manager, Nominated Individual or Senior Management
Where a safeguarding concern or allegation involves the Registered Manager, Safeguarding Lead, Nominated Individual, Director, owner or another senior person, {{org_field_name}} will ensure that the concern is managed independently and that the person who is the subject of the allegation cannot influence the safeguarding response.
Reporting the Concern
Where the Registered Manager, Nominated Individual or Safeguarding Lead is implicated, the person raising the concern must not be required to report the concern to the individual who is the subject of the allegation.
The concern must be reported directly to:
Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Team
- Local Authority: {{org_field_local_authority_authority_name}}
- Telephone: {{org_field_local_authority_phone_number}}
- Email: {{org_field_local_authority_authority_email}}
- Online referral: {{org_field_local_authority_information_link}}
- Out-of-hours: {{org_field_local_authority_out_of_hours_phone_number}}
Where a crime may have occurred:
- 999 must be used in an emergency; or
- 101 may be used for non-emergency police reporting.
Information about concerns regarding the quality or safety of the regulated service may also be provided to CQC.
Where another Director, owner, trustee or sufficiently senior person exists who is independent of the concern, they must also be informed.
Maintaining Impartiality
The individual who is the subject of the allegation must not:
- decide whether the concern should be reported;
- investigate the safeguarding allegation;
- determine the safeguarding outcome;
- control access to relevant evidence;
- interview witnesses about the allegation;
- influence the person raising the concern;
- influence the adult at risk; or
- make decisions about whether external agencies should be informed.
An independent senior person will coordinate the organisation’s response where one is available.
Where no suitably independent internal person is available, {{org_field_name}} will appoint an appropriately competent external person to coordinate necessary internal governance or employment actions.
Immediate Protective Action
Immediate action will be taken to protect people from further risk.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include:
- changing working arrangements;
- removing the person from direct contact with the adult concerned;
- restricting access to records or premises;
- providing additional supervision;
- temporary redeployment; or
- precautionary suspension where this is considered necessary and proportionate under the organisation’s employment procedures.
Suspension will not be treated as an automatic finding of guilt.
External Investigation
{{org_field_name}} will cooperate fully with:
- the Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Team;
- police;
- CQC;
- commissioners; and
- other relevant statutory or professional bodies.
The Local Authority will determine whether the statutory criteria for a Section 42 enquiry are met and how the safeguarding enquiry should proceed.
Internal disciplinary or management enquiries will be coordinated so that they do not prejudice or interfere with:
- the safeguarding enquiry;
- a police investigation; or
- another statutory investigation.
Support for the Adult
The adult affected will:
- receive appropriate immediate protection and support;
- be kept informed to the extent appropriate;
- have their wishes and desired outcomes considered;
- receive accessible information;
- be supported to communicate;
- have access to advocacy where appropriate; and
- be protected from retaliation or disadvantage arising from the allegation.
Staff and Whistleblower Protection
A member of staff who raises a genuine safeguarding concern about management will not be subjected to retaliation, victimisation or detriment for appropriately raising the concern.
Staff may use the organisation’s Whistleblowing Policy and may raise concerns directly with appropriate external bodies where internal reporting is inappropriate or compromised.
Notifications and Referrals
The independent person coordinating the organisation’s response will ensure consideration is given to:
- Local Authority safeguarding referral;
- police involvement;
- statutory CQC notification;
- commissioner notification;
- Disclosure and Barring Service referral where the statutory criteria are met;
- professional regulator referral where applicable; and
- other legal or contractual reporting requirements.
Outcome and Learning
When external processes permit, {{org_field_name}} will determine what internal employment, disciplinary, governance or improvement action is required.
Following conclusion of the matter:
- safeguarding actions will be reviewed;
- relevant lessons will be identified;
- policies or procedures will be updated where necessary;
- staff training or supervision will be strengthened where required;
- governance arrangements will be reviewed; and
- appropriate records will be retained.
The person who was subject to the allegation will only resume duties or responsibilities following an appropriate risk and management decision and after relevant external restrictions or requirements have been considered.
Staff and Service User Support: We acknowledge that an allegation against the senior manager can be particularly stressful for staff and people using the service. We will ensure that support is available – staff may speak confidentially with the alternate safeguarding lead or an external advisor, and service users will be kept informed (in an appropriate way) about any management changes or any measures affecting them. Advocacy will be provided for any service user who may need help to express their feelings during this process.
Decision and Follow-up: The outcome of the safeguarding investigation will be communicated to the relevant parties. If the allegation is substantiated, the organisation will take decisive action: this could include dismissal of {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} (Registered Manager) and reporting to the DBS and any professional bodies. The Nominated Individual role would then be reassigned to another suitable person for the long term. If the allegation is not substantiated, we will work to re-establish confidence in management and address any remaining concerns or misunderstandings that led to the allegation. Regardless of outcome, we will review how the situation was handled and identify any improvements in our conflict of interest safeguards. For example, we might decide to appoint a separate Nominated Individual if feasible, to provide more oversight.
12. Conclusion
Safeguarding adults is a fundamental priority for {{org_field_name}}. By adhering to this policy, all members of our team will ensure that adults in our supported living personal care service are safe from abuse, and that if concerns arise, we respond effectively and in compliance with our legal duties. This policy will be kept up-to-date with any changes in legislation or guidance. All staff are required to familiarize themselves with it and to sign an acknowledgment that they understand their responsibilities. Together, we will maintain a culture where abuse is never acceptable, and any concerns are dealt with properly for the protection and well-being of the people we support.
Sources / References:
- Care Quality Commission – Regulation 13: Safeguarding service users from abuse and improper treatment – Regulation 13: Safeguarding service users from abuse and improper treatment – Care Quality Commission
- Care Quality Commission – Fundamental Standards (Safeguarding from abuse)
- Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, Regulation 13 (full text and guidance) – Regulation 13: Safeguarding service users from abuse and improper treatment – Care Quality Commission
- Care Quality Commission (Registration) Regulations 2009, Regulation 18 – Notification of incidents (guidance)
- Care Act 2014 – Section 42 criteria for safeguarding adults; Care Act statutory guidance principles
- SCIE and Norfolk SAB – Types of abuse as per Care Act 2014
- CQC Scope of Registration guidance – Definition of Personal Care and Supported Living separation – Personal care – Care Quality Commission
- CQC Guidance for providers – requirement for robust safeguarding procedures and staff training – Regulation 13: Safeguarding service users from abuse and improper treatment – Care Quality Commission
- CQC Guidance on whistleblowing and duty to have procedures; guidance on whistleblowing to prescribed bodies (e.g. CQC) – Whistleblowing for employees: Who to tell and what to expect –
13. Policy Review
This Safeguarding Adults Policy will be reviewed at least annually and earlier where necessary to ensure that it remains current, legally compliant and appropriate to the Supported Living services provided by {{org_field_name}}.
An earlier review will take place following:
- changes in safeguarding legislation, regulations or statutory guidance;
- changes in CQC requirements or registration guidance;
- changes to the Care Act 2014 or Care and Support Statutory Guidance;
- changes to the Mental Capacity Act 2005 or the legal framework relating to deprivation of liberty;
- significant safeguarding incidents or allegations;
- Safeguarding Adults Reviews or other relevant external reviews;
- concerns or recommendations raised by the Local Authority Safeguarding Adults Team, CQC, commissioners, police or other relevant agencies;
- audit findings that identify weaknesses in safeguarding arrangements;
- complaints, whistleblowing concerns or feedback that identify safeguarding risks;
- changes in the nature, size, location or scope of the service; or
- learning that indicates that the current policy or procedures require amendment.
The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring that this policy remains up to date and consistent with current legislation, CQC requirements, Local Authority safeguarding procedures and related organisational policies.
Any changes to the policy will be communicated to relevant staff. Where changes affect safeguarding responsibilities, reporting arrangements or staff practice, appropriate briefing, training or competency assessment will be provided.
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.