Safeguarding procedures Flashcards
Definition of abuse
This describes physical, sexual psychological, emotional or financial abuse.
Definition of neglect
This means a failure to meet a persons basic physical, emotional, social or psychological needs, which is likely to result in an impairment of the persons wellbeing.
Definition of safeguarding
Safeguarding means preventing and protecting children and adults at risk, and educating those around them to recognize the signs and symptoms
Definition of an adult at risk
Anyone over 18, who is experiencing or is at risk of experiencing abuse or neglect, and has needs for care and support. And as a result of those needs is unable to protect themselves against neglect or the risks.
Definition of a child at risk
Anyone under the age of 28 who is experiencing or is at risk of experiencing abuse, neglect and harm, who has needs for care and support.
Do we need a child or parents consent to report?
- Professionals should report with or without consent of the child, although it is best practice to get their consent
- Asking for the child’s consent demonstrates a child centered approach
- Still report if they don’t consent
- Ask for consent for the parent/carer unless it would increase the risk
Do we need consent from adults at risk?
- Presume the individual has capacity
- Adults have the right to withhold consent unless certain circumstances exists
- Adults have the right to make decisions even if they seem to be risky
- Practitioner must ensure adult knows the impact of their choices
What are the reasons to report without consent?
- Adult at risk is unable to give consent
- Overriding public interest (adult is a risk to the public)
- Life threatening situation
- Report to police if a crime has been committed
How to make a record
- Make no judgements
- Factual information
- Action taken and decisions made
- Date and sign
- What was observed
- People involved and location
