What is safeguarding?

If you or the person you are concerned about is:

• aged 18 or over

• in need of, or may need, health and social care support (whether or not they are receiving these services)

• being abused / neglected, or at risk of abuse or neglect from another person

Then you should consider raising a concern with Adult Social Care. You can find out more about how to raise a safeguarding concern by visiting our Worried about an adult page.

If there is an immediate risk of harm to the person, you should contact the Police via 999 in the first instance.  If a crime has been committed but the person is not in danger, you can report this to the Police using the non-emergency number 101.

Abuse and neglect are a violation of someone's human and civil rights by another person or group of people.

The person causing harm may be known to the person suffering abuse and / or neglect.  They could be a friend, a relative or a neighbour. They may be in a position of trust and power. They may be a professional in healthcare, social care or education.

Abuse and neglect can happen anywhere, including at home or in public places.  It can be a single incident or repeated acts of abuse and neglect.

Find out more about what Abuse and Neglect is here.

This information pack explains what adult safeguarding is, why concerns may be raised, and what to expect if safeguarding is involved. It is written in plain English for adults, families and representatives, and helps explain processes, meetings and professional language. Safeguarding is about support, not blame, and your views, wishes and wellbeing are central throughout.