What is safeguarding?
Safeguarding means protecting people’s health, wellbeing and human rights, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse and neglect. Those in most need of protection are children, young people and adults whose circumstances make them vulnerable.
Taking action
Anybody can help identify children or adults who need support to live full lives, free from abuse and neglect. Once a safeguarding issue is identified, it allows the relevant professionals to prevent abuse and minimise risk without taking control away from individuals. When necessary, action can be taken if abuse or neglect has already occurred.
Local authorities, care providers, health services, housing providers and criminal justice agencies are all important safeguarding partners.
Click on the sections below for other important information.