What is safeguarding
Safeguarding adults is about preventing and responding to allegations of abuse, harm or neglect of adults at risk across Dudley Borough.
The aims of adult safeguarding are to:
- prevent harm and reduce the risk of abuse or neglect to adults with care and support needs
- stop abuse or neglect wherever possible
- safeguard adults in a way that supports them in making choices and having control about how they want to live
- promote an approach that concentrates on improving life for the adults concerned
- raise public awareness so that communities as a whole, alongside professionals, play their part in preventing, identifying and responding to abuse and neglect
- provide information and support in accessible ways to help people understand the different types of abuse, how to stay safe and what to do to raise a concern about the safety or well-being of an adult
- address what has caused the abuse or neglect.
Who might need safeguarding services?
Section 42 of the Care Act 2014 states that safeguarding enquiries should be made where:
- a person has needs for care and support
- is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect; and
- as a result of their care and support needs, is unable to protect him or herself against the abuse or neglect, or the risk of it.
The Safeguarding Adults Board aims to work with local people and our partners so that adults at risk are safe and able to protect themselves from abuse and neglect and be treated fairly, with dignity and respect plus access to the services that they need.
Adult Safeguarding Principles
People being supported and encouraged to make their own decisions and informed consent.
“I am asked what I want as the outcomes from the safeguarding process and these directly inform what happens”
It is better to take action before harm occurs.
“I receive clear and simple information about what abuse is, how to recognise the signs and what I can do to seek help”
The least intrusive response appropriate to the risk presented.
“I am sure that the professionals will work in my interest as I see them, and they will only get involved as much as needed”
Support and representation for those in greatest need.
“I get help and support to report abuse and neglect. I get help so I am able to take part in the safeguarding process to the extent to which I want”
Local solutions through services working with their communities. Communities have a part to play in preventing, detecting and reporting neglect and abuse.
“I know that staff treat any personal and sensitive information in confidence, only sharing what is helpful and necessary. I am confident that professionals will work together and with me to get the best result for me”
Accountability and transparency in delivering safeguarding.
“I understand the role of everyone involved in my life and so do they”
Making Safeguarding Personal
Making Safeguarding Personal means it should be person-led and outcome-focused.
It engages the person in a conservation about how best to respond to their safeguarding situation in a way that enhances involvement, choice and control as well as improving quality of life, well-being and safety.