An Introduction to Child & Adult Safeguarding
These five powerful videos cover key knowledge and case examples of both children and adult safeguarding. The videos were produced by the London Borough of Haringey. We thank them for the time and effort they put into creating these excellent learning resources.
What is Safeguarding?
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Safeguarding is the action we take to promote the welfare of children and adults at risk and protect them from harm.
Every single person who comes into contact with children, families and adults at risk has a role to play. You need to know what to do if you have any concerns about someone's welfare and think that they may be in need of protection. Effective safeguarding is done through working together with colleagues and different agencies.
Understanding Abuse - Part 1
Safeguarding is everyone's business. There are many different types of abuse and it's important that you are able to recognise signs of different types of abuse.
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Safeguarding children and adults is a legal duty. The Care Act 2014 placed the protection of adults on the same statutory footing as children. There are additional types of abuse covered in the Care Act 2014 including Organisational Abuse, Self-Neglect and Modern Slavery.
Understanding Abuse - Part 2
Safeguarding is a power we can use to prevent and stop abuse in all parts of our borough. All professionals need to pay attention and report concerns.
Abuse can happen anywhere and by anyone. Children and adults at risk are vulnerable to abuse or neglect including by their own families. Reporting concerns can change the outcome for vulnerable people. Safeguarding children and adults at risk requires us to notice additional types of abuse such as cyber bullying and online abuse.
Signs & Indicators
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Often signs of abuse can be hidden or subtle. You need to pay attention to your instincts or ‘gut feelings’. If you notice something that does not seem right, you must report this to Lambeth Social Care.
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Sudden changes in appearance, behaviour or mood, may be signs of abuse. Inappropriate sexualised conduct or conversation can be an indicator of sexual abuse. If a vulnerable person is often seen hungry, unkempt and unclean, this could be a sign of neglect or self-neglect (if an adult).
Taking Action
If you spot signs of abuse, the most important thing to do is – tell someone. This could be your line manager or manager’s manager. You can always call Lambeth Social Care and report this directly.
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If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can still report your concerns. You don’t need evidence of abuse or neglect to report your concerns - only ‘an appearance’ of something that does not seem right.
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Social Care will investigate your concerns to establish the facts around what is happening and work with the individual, family or organisation to address whatever is going on. Safeguarding is about protecting vulnerable children or adults, but it is also about working with individuals and families to understand their needs and what support may be needed.