Safeguarding

Question 1

When should the police be contacted related to child abuse?

Answer 1

Where you consider the nature of the child abuse to be an emergency

Question 2

What are the information sources available to pharmacists when considering next steps on dealing with abuse?

Answer 2

• Named child protection professional in your organisation
• Child’s GP
• Peers or senior colleagues
• NSPCC
• Social Services
• Police

Question 3

Should you, as a pharmacist, attempt to investigate suspicions or allegations of abuse directly?

Answer 3

No - make appropriate records of concerns, decisions taken and reasons why further action was taken on a particular occasion

Question 4

Up to what age does child protection legislation apply to?

Answer 4

18 years old

Question 5

What is a Vulnerable Adult?

Answer 5

A person who is older than 18, who are is at greater risk of neglect or abuse

Question 6

Examples of characteristics that make a person more vulnerable or at risk of abuse

Answer 6

• Mental/ physical disability
• Learning disability
• Frail or elderly
• In an abusive relationship
• Is a substance abuser

Question 7

What legislation protects vulnerable adults? (2)

Answer 7

• The Social Care Act 2014

- The Social Services and Wellbeing Act 2014

Question 8

How would you manage a conversation with a child or vulnerable adult regarding their abuse? (6)

Answer 8

• Explain confidentiality and when you may need to disclose details, and to whom
• Ensure abuser is not present at conversation
• Allow them a chaperone (trusted person) if they wish
• Communicate clearly
• Take their education and disabilities into account- and tailor approach (if child, use drawing/books/activities)
• Establish facts about abuse and acknowledge the effect on victim, but don’t go into detail about the nature of abuse