Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding the welfare and wellbeing of all patients, particularly children, young people, and adults at risk, by ensuring that our staff are well-trained, informed, and vigilant in recognising, responding to, and reporting concerns about abuse or neglect.

Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and volunteers who work within our organisation. It covers safeguarding children under the age of 18 and adults who may be at risk due to their circumstances, needs, or vulnerabilities.

Aims

• To provide a safe and supportive environment for all patients.
• To identify and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
• To comply with relevant UK safeguarding laws, regulations, and professional standards.

Responsibilities

• Staff: All staff are responsible for being alert to the signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation and reporting concerns to the designated safeguarding lead (DSL).
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): The DSL oversees safeguarding practices, ensures staff training, and liaises with external agencies as necessary.

Key Principles

1. Prevention: Create a culture of vigilance and awareness.
2. Protection: Ensure systems are in place to protect patients at risk.
3. Partnership: Work collaboratively with external agencies, including local safeguarding boards and law enforcement, when required.
4. Accountability: Maintain clear roles and responsibilities to address safeguarding concerns effectively.

Safeguarding Adults at Risk
Adults at risk are those who may need additional support due to physical or mental health conditions, disabilities, or other factors. Our organisation adheres to the six safeguarding principles outlined in the Care Act 2014:

• Empowerment
• Prevention
• Proportionality
• Protection
• Partnership
• Accountability

Safeguarding Children
We follow the statutory guidance outlined in Working Together to Safeguard Children and Keeping Children Safe in Education. This includes recognising signs of abuse and neglect and reporting them promptly to the appropriate authorities.

Procedures

1. Recognising Abuse: Staff will be trained to identify signs of physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
2. Raising Concerns: Any concerns should be reported to the DSL immediately.
3. Taking Action: The DSL will assess the situation, make referrals to external agencies where necessary, and ensure the individual is supported throughout.

Confidentiality and Record-Keeping
All safeguarding concerns will be documented accurately and stored securely. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis, in line with GDPR and safeguarding laws.

Training and Awareness
All staff will receive safeguarding training appropriate to their role, with regular updates to ensure their knowledge and skills remain current.

Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation or organisational practice.

Contact Information

• Elements Medical Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Sandra Green
• Local Safeguarding Adults: 01302 737 063
• Local Safeguarding Children: 01302 737 777
• Adult Mental Health: 01302 796 191
• Emergency Contacts: Local Police (101 or 999 in an emergency) and Social Services

For further details or to report a concern, please contact the DSL or refer to our full safeguarding procedures.