Safeguarding Policy

We believe that every patient has the right to receive safe, high-quality care in an environment free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. We take our safeguarding responsibilities seriously and are committed to creating a culture where concerns are identified, reported, and acted upon promptly and appropriately.

Our safeguarding policy applies to all staff, including clinicians, administrative personnel, and any third parties acting on our behalf. It covers the safeguarding of adults at risk and, where relevant, children.

Our designated Safeguarding Lead is responsible for overseeing all safeguarding matters, providing advice and guidance to staff, and ensuring that concerns are escalated appropriately.

Our clinical staff are trained to recognise indicators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation in adults at risk. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Unexplained physical injuries or changes in health
• Signs of psychological distress, anxiety, or fear
• Sudden changes in behaviour or withdrawal
• Indicators of financial exploitation or coercive control
• Disclosure of abuse by the patient themselves
• Concerns raised by a third party

Staff are required to document and report any safeguarding concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead without delay.

When a safeguarding concern is identified, we follow a structured reporting process:

• The concern is documented in the patient's clinical record
• The Designated Safeguarding Lead is notified immediately
• A risk assessment is conducted to determine the appropriate response
• Where appropriate, a referral is made to the relevant local authority safeguarding team or the police
• The patient is kept informed and supported throughout the process, where safe to do so

In cases of immediate risk to life or safety, staff will contact the emergency services (999) without delay.

Under the Care Act 2014, an adult at risk is a person aged 18 or over who has care and support needs, is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect, and as a result of their care and support needs is unable to protect themselves from abuse or neglect. Our service is designed for adults only. We do not provide services to individuals under the age of 18.

All clinical and administrative staff receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role. This includes awareness of the indicators of abuse and neglect, understanding of relevant legislation and guidance, and knowledge of the reporting procedures. Training is refreshed at least every two years.

If you have a safeguarding concern about yourself or someone else, you can contact the following organisations directly:

This safeguarding policy is reviewed annually by the Designated Safeguarding Lead and the Registered Manager. It is also reviewed following any significant safeguarding incident or change in legislation or guidance. The full policy is available to staff, patients, and regulators on request.

If you have any questions about our safeguarding policy or wish to raise a concern, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead at [email protected] or call us on 0800 000 0000.