What is adult safeguarding?

Safeguarding means protecting an adult’s right to live safely and free from abuse or neglect.

It is also about people and organisations working together to prevent and stop abuse and neglect.

Who needs to be safeguarded?

People who need to be safeguarded:

• have care and support needs;
• are experiencing, or are at risk of, abuse or neglect; and
• are unable to protect themselves from either the risk of, or experiencing, abuse or neglect because of their care and support needs.

Who abuses or neglects adults?

Anyone can be responsible for abuse or neglect, including:

• spouses / partners;
• other family members;
• neighbours;
• friends;
• acquaintances;
• local residents;
• people who deliberately exploit adults they perceive as vulnerable to abuse;
• paid staff or professionals and volunteers;
• strangers.

Although we often think of abusers as being strangers, it is more likely that the adult will know them and will be someone they trust. They may have some power or influence over the adult.

Where can abuse take place?

Abuse can happen anywhere. For example:

• in someone’s own home;
• in a public place;
• in hospital;
• in a care home or;
• in college.

It can take place when an adult lives, alone, or with others.

How should I respond?

If you are concerned an adult may be at risk of or experiencing abuse or neglect, you should discuss the situation with a manager or the safeguarding adults lead for your organisation.

Your local safeguarding adults board procedures should always be followed.