What Is Adult Safeguarding?

Adult safeguarding means protecting a person’s right to live in safety, free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It involves preventing harm and reducing the risk of abuse or neglect to people with care and support needs, while also promoting their wellbeing, independence, and rights.

Safeguarding is not just a legal duty for care providers, it’s a moral responsibility we all share.

Who Needs Safeguarding?

Safeguarding applies to adults who:

• Have care and support needs (whether or not these needs are being met),

• Are experiencing or at risk of abuse or neglect,

• And are unable to protect themselves from harm because of those needs.

This can include:

• Older people

• People with learning or physical disabilities

• Those with mental health conditions

• Individuals with sensory impairments

• People with long-term health conditions

• Carers who may be at risk themselves

Types of Abuse to Be Aware Of

Abuse can take many forms, and often it’s not immediately visible. Here are the main types to be aware of:

1. Physical Abuse – Hitting, slapping, pushing, misuse of medication, or restraint.

2. Emotional/Psychological Abuse – Threats, intimidation, humiliation, or isolation.

3. Sexual Abuse – Unwanted touching, sexual acts, or sexual exploitation.

4. Financial or Material Abuse – Theft, fraud, exploitation, pressure about wills or property.

5. Neglect and Acts of Omission – Ignoring medical or physical care needs, withholding medication or food.

6. Self-Neglect – When someone fails to care for their own basic needs.

7. Modern Slavery – Forced labour, human trafficking, or servitude.

8. Domestic Abuse – Abuse by partners or family members, including coercive control.

9. Discriminatory Abuse – Unequal treatment based on age, race, disability, sexuality, etc.

10. Organisational Abuse – Poor care in a setting like a hospital or care home due to neglect or poor practices.

The Principles of Safeguarding Adults

Under the Care Act 2014 (UK), safeguarding is guided by six core principles:

1. Empowerment – People being supported to make their own decisions.

2. Prevention – Taking action before harm occurs.

3. Proportionality – The least intrusive response to the risk.

4. Protection – Providing support to those in greatest need.

5. Partnership – Working with local communities and services.

6. Accountability – Transparency in safeguarding practices.

Signs Someone May Be at Risk

• Unexplained injuries or bruises

• Sudden withdrawal or depression

• Poor hygiene or malnutrition

• Fearfulness around specific individuals

• Missing money or possessions

• Delay in accessing medical care

• Changes in behaviour or routines

Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, it might be.

What to Do If You Suspect Abuse

If you believe someone is at risk or has been abused:

1. Speak Up – Raise your concern with the appropriate adult safeguarding team.

2. Report It – Call the local authority safeguarding team, the police (in emergencies), or the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

3. Preserve Evidence – Make detailed notes of what you’ve seen or heard.

4. Support the Person – Reassure them, listen without judgment, and respect their wishes if possible.

How Care Providers Safeguard Adults

At Homecare Gurus, safeguarding is part of every service we offer. We:

• Vet and train all staff in safeguarding protocols

• Build open communication channels with clients and families

• Promote a culture of respect, choice, and dignity

• Maintain detailed records and report concerns promptly

• Engage in multi-agency partnerships with social services, health professionals, and community organisations

Everyone Has a Role to Play

Safeguarding isn’t just for professionals; it’s for all of us. Whether you’re a family member, neighbour, or friend, you can:

• Learn the signs of abuse

• Support open conversations

• Be a safe and trusted listener

• Know how to report concerns

Final Thoughts

Safeguarding adults is about creating a world where dignity, safety, and respect are never negotiable. Let’s commit to building communities where every adult, regardless of age or ability, feels protected, heard, and valued.

If you’re ever in doubt, don’t stay silent. Safeguarding starts with speaking up.

Need advice or support? Contact us today.