Spotting Signs of Abuse & Neglect
All health and social care workers must be vigilant about adult safeguarding concerns in all walks of life. Findings from serious case reviews have sometimes stated that if professionals had acted upon their concerns or sought more information, then serious harm might have been prevented.
Your Role in Spotting Abuse & Neglect
All professionals must understand what to do, and where to go locally to get help and advice.
This will include:
- Identifying the different types of abuse and neglect and their signs
- Knowing who to tell about suspected abuse or neglect
- Supporting adults to keep safe
- Supporting adults to think and weigh up the risks and benefits
How to Respond to Signs of Abuse or Neglect
You should know what to do if you suspect abuse of if abuse is disclosed to you or made known to you. All suspicions have to be followed up in a formal way. It is your responsibility to respond to allegations or suspicions in line with your workplace’s safeguarding policies and procedures.