verb
- protect from harm or damage with an appropriate measure
-
a framework which safeguards vulnerable people from exploitation.
Abuse
Abuse can take many forms. Children and adults may be affected by harm or abuse, regardless of age, ethnicity, gender or religion. If you suspect someone is being abused, please visit our ‘report a concern’ page for full guidance on what to do.
Types of abuse
- Bullying or harassment (including cyberbullying)
- Criminal exploitation
- Domestic abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Extremism and radicalisation
- Female genital mutilation
- Grooming
- Human trafficking
- Modern-day slavery
- Neglect
- Non-recent abuse
- Online abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual harassment, abuse and exploitation.
Raising a concern
What to do if you have a concern about a child, young person or adult; if you have a concern about an individual’s physical, sexual or emotional well-being, it is your responsibility to seek advice and support.
- Tell the safeguarding lead of your organisation immediately with as much clear detail as you are able.
- If there is an immediate risk of harm or an emergency situation, call 999 for the police immediately and then contact Social Services.
Managing allegations
What to do if a complaint of allegation about an adult or yourself is made, inside or outside your organisation if an allegation about you or another adult is made, it is your responsibility to refer this to the Safeguarding lead of your organisation immediately.
You can write notes on what you’ve been told, remember to include dates, times and full names of those involved there this information is given. do not investigate any allegations yourself.
Sacpa recommends
Sacpa recommends
- Remain calm
- Take all disclosures and allegations seriously
- When listening, do not interrupt and do not ask leading questions
- Do not promise confidentiality or secrecy
- Treat everyone equally and with respect
- Be aware of appropriate boundaries with young people and colleagues/peers
- Be aware of the use of inappropriate language, both verbal and written.
Useful contact information
- Childline: 0800 1111
- NSPCC: 0808 800 5000
- Internet watch foundation (child porn and images of exploitation)
- Sacpa: +44 (0)207 798 1585
- Local safeguarding partnerships – please visit the Sacpa members’ site for details
- Handling safeguarding allegations in a charity.
Guide to safeguarding
Sacpa produces a credit card-sized, mini guide to safeguarding for members. This guide can be personalised for any organisation. If you would like to order copies for you or your organisation, please click here.
