What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding means protecting people from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The adults we support may be at increased risk due to their health conditions, disabilities, or circumstances. As a carer, you are often the person who sees a client most frequently — you are the front line of safeguarding.

Types of Abuse to Be Aware Of

• Physical abuse — hitting, slapping, pushing, restraint, rough handling
• Emotional or psychological abuse — threats, intimidation, isolation, humiliation
• Sexual abuse — any sexual activity the person has not or cannot consent to
• Financial abuse — theft, fraud, misuse of money or property, coercion over financial matters
• Neglect — failure to provide adequate food, warmth, medication, hygiene, or medical care
• Self-neglect — the person is unable or unwilling to care for their own basic needs
• Organisational abuse — poor care standards, rigid routines, or inadequate staffing within care provision
• Domestic abuse — controlling, coercive, or threatening behaviour by someone close to the person

Safeguarding — Do

Safeguarding — Do Not

Recognising the Signs

• Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns, or marks
• Changes in behaviour — withdrawal, fear, anxiety, or aggression
• Poor hygiene, weight loss, or dehydration with no clinical explanation
• Missing personal belongings or unexplained financial transactions
• The client seems afraid of a particular person or becomes distressed at certain times
• Reluctance to be alone with a specific individual
• Overly controlling behaviour by a family member or other carer

How to Report a Safeguarding Concern