Safeguarding and How to Make a Referral
Safeguarding refers to the protection of vulnerable individuals—children and adults—from abuse, neglect, and harm. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and it ensures that vulnerable individuals are supported and protected by appropriate services.
Safeguarding for Children
For children, safeguarding involves protecting their welfare, ensuring they grow up in a safe environment, and preventing harm from neglect or abuse. Any professional or individual who suspects a child is at risk of harm should follow safeguarding procedures to ensure the child’s safety.
Safeguarding for Adults
Adult safeguarding involves protecting those who are at risk due to age, disability, or mental health conditions. This could include protecting vulnerable adults from financial, emotional, or physical abuse, as well as neglect.
How to Make a Safeguarding Referral
If you have concerns about the safety of a child or adult, follow these steps:
1. Identify the Concern
- If you suspect a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of abuse, neglect, or harm, it is important to take your concerns seriously. This could be based on observation, something you have heard, or changes in behavior.
2. Immediate Danger
- If the person is in immediate danger, call 999 for urgent assistance.
3. Referral for Children
- Contact your local Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) for concerns about a child's welfare during office hours. Check your local council’s website for contact details.
- For urgent concerns outside of office hours, contact the Emergency Duty Team in your area or dial 999 if immediate action is needed.
4. Referral for Adults
- For adults at risk, contact your local Adult Social Care department during office hours. You can find contact details on your local council’s website.
- For urgent concerns outside of office hours, contact your local Emergency Duty Team in your area or dial 999 if immediate action is needed.
5. Provide Details
- Be prepared to provide details about the individual you are concerned about, such as their name, age, address, and the nature of your concern. Provide as much information as possible, including any relevant context that will help professionals assess the situation.
6. Follow Up
- After making a referral, professionals may contact you for further information, and they will assess the situation. You should receive confirmation of the referral and may be involved in ongoing discussions, depending on your role in the individual’s life.
Confidentiality and Reporting
Safeguarding referrals are confidential, and the safety and well-being of the individual are always prioritised.
Safeguarding works on a multi-agency basis, meaning that various professionals—such as social workers, police, health services, and education staff—may collaborate to ensure the person at risk receives the appropriate support.
By making a safeguarding referral, you are playing a critical role in protecting vulnerable children and adults.