Safeguarding

Care Act 2014:

Lewisham Health and Social Care Forum

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The wellbeing principle

Wellbeing broadly defined: 9 areas in particular

Local authorities should also have regard to other key principles when carrying out their activities, such as beginning with the assumption that the individual is best-placed to judge their well-being

“The general duty of a local authority, … in the case of an individual, is to promote that individual’s wellbeing”.

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Safeguarding

Safeguarding is the process of protecting adults with care and support needs from abuse or neglect

Key responsibility is with local authorities, in partnership with the police and the NHS

However, all organisations working with individuals who have care or support needs are affected

Strong existing practice in Lewisham and London. Care Act puts adult safeguarding on a legal footing from April 2015

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Principles

The statutory guidance enshrines the six principles of safeguarding:

1. Empowerment – person-led decisions and informed consent

2. Prevention – it is better to take action before harm occurs

3. Proportionality – proportionate and least intrusive response, as appropriate to the risk presented

4. Protection – support and representation for those in greatest need

5. Partnerships – local solutions through services working with their communities

6. Accountability – accountability and transparency in delivering safeguarding.

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Safeguarding Adults Board:Updated

Oversees adult safeguarding in each locality Led by the Local Authority Include the NHS and Police, plus other bodies as appropriate To develop a shared plan for adult safeguarding, working with local

people to decide how best to protect adults in vulnerable situations To publish the safeguarding plan and report annually on its progress Conduct Safeguarding Adult Reviews

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Implications for Provider / VCS Organisations

Be familiar with the local multi-agency policy and procedures, and Have internal procedures to direct staff on what to do if they encounter

abuse. Have a nominated lead for safeguarding Understand that you must share information in cases of abuse. All staff and volunteers should have at least basic safeguarding

training. Develop/refresh your provision of advice, signposting and prevention

support Providers of care regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)

have a duty to report any allegations of abuse or neglect to the CQC.