Safeguarding means protecting people’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect, and promoting their health, wellbeing and human rights. The 2014 Care Act sets out clear responsibilities for organisations with a leading role for councils, the Police and NHS in overseeing local arrangements.

These try to make sure that adults with care and support needs are at the centre of any plans to support them, and where they are at risk of abuse or neglect, taking action before harm occurs and working with them to develop a protection plan. Carers are important partners in safeguarding because of the vital and every day role they have in supporting adults with care needs.

They are often best placed to help protect against abuse, their unique knowledge about their loved one can help ensure that risks are managed in a proportionate, positive and personalised way and maximise wellbeing.

The Care Act recognises situations where carers may:

  • experience intentional or unintentional harm from the adult they are trying to support (or from professionals and organisations they are in contact with)
  • unintentionally or intentionally harm or neglect the adult they support on their own or with others
  • Suspect or witness abuse or neglect of the adult

When carers do speak up about concerns it is important that they are listened to. When it is necessary a safeguarding enquiry will be undertaken to try to resolve concerns. All professionals should recognise the complex dynamics of a caring relationship and be aware of the pressure that carers may be under. This is why the carer’s assessment is so important and key to identifying and addressing the issues and improving quality of life, reducing the risk both to carers and to the person they care for.

If a carer experiences intentional or unintentional harm from the person they are supporting, or if they unintentionally or intentionally harm or neglect the adult they support, help should be sought. Professionals should view any such situations sensitively and proportionately. By responding early, this may prevent the situation deteriorating or breaking down. Information and advice about conditions and behaviours can often help.

The local authority should arrange any necessary provision of information or support that can help minimise stress and the risk of abuse or neglect.

Are you a carer?

If you are in a caring role, or know someone who is, more information on support for carers here in Warrington can be found at warrington.gov.uk/carers

The online community directory, My Life Warrington, also lists a range of local services that can support you in your caring role and is available at mylifewarrington.co.uk

Report a concern

Are you worried about the welfare of a vulnerable child, young person or adult?

Find out more information about how to report a concern at warrington.gov.uk/reportabuse, or call the council’s safeguarding teams on 01925 443322.