What is an 'Adult at Risk'?
An adult at risk is defined as a person aged 18 or over who has care and support needs, and who is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect, and as a result of their care needs, is unable to protect themselves. This definition is broad and can include people with various conditions, including physical or mental disabilities, age-related frailty, or certain long-term illnesses. Recognizing these individuals and their potential vulnerability is the starting point for any safeguarding process.
The Six Key Principles of Adult Safeguarding
The adult safeguarding procedure is guided by six fundamental principles, ensuring the process is person-centred and ethical.
- Empowerment: The individual is supported and encouraged to make their own decisions. The person's wishes and desired outcomes are central to the process.
- Prevention: The aim is to act before harm occurs. This includes providing clear information on recognizing abuse and promoting protective measures.
- Proportionality: The response should be the least intrusive possible while remaining appropriate to the level of risk. This avoids unnecessary restriction of freedom.
- Protection: Support and representation are provided for those in the greatest need. This ensures they can participate in the process to the extent they wish.
- Partnership: Local solutions are developed through services working with their communities. This means agencies collaborate effectively, and information is shared appropriately.
- Accountability: All participants are clear on their roles and responsibilities. The process is conducted with transparency, and actions are justified.
The Multi-Stage Safeguarding Procedure
The formal procedure is a structured process that can be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, as prescribed by legislation like the Care Act 2014. While variations exist between local authorities, the core stages are consistent.
Stage 1: Raising a Concern (The Alert)
The procedure begins when an alert is raised by anyone—a professional, a family member, or a concerned member of the public. This initial concern can be reported to a local authority's Adult Social Care department. The reporter, or 'alerter', does not need definitive proof of abuse, only a reasonable suspicion. Immediate action may be taken to ensure the individual's safety, and if a crime is suspected, the police must be involved.
Stage 2: Information Gathering and Enquiry
Upon receiving a concern, the local authority is legally obligated to make or cause others to make enquiries if they believe an adult with care and support needs is experiencing or at risk of abuse or neglect. This stage involves gathering initial facts and assessing the risk to the individual. The views and wishes of the adult at risk are paramount throughout this process.
Stage 3: Strategy Discussion or Meeting
If the initial information suggests the need for further action, a multi-agency strategy discussion is convened. This involves professionals from various agencies, such as health, police, and social care. The purpose is to agree on a coordinated plan for the enquiry, assess risks, and determine immediate protective measures. The meeting ensures all relevant perspectives are considered.
Stage 4: Investigation and Fact-Finding
An investigation, or 'enquiry', is conducted to establish the facts surrounding the allegations of abuse or neglect. This may involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing records, and other activities. The nature and scope of the investigation are proportionate to the risk presented. In cases of suspected crime, a police investigation takes priority, but other agencies continue to work in partnership to protect the adult.
Stage 5: Case Conference and Safeguarding Plan
Following the investigation, a case conference may be held to review the findings. A safeguarding plan is developed, focusing on the outcomes desired by the adult at risk. This plan outlines specific actions to reduce or remove the risk of abuse, detailing who is responsible for each step and within what timeframe.
Stage 6: Closure and Review
The safeguarding process concludes when the agreed-upon outcomes are achieved and the risk has been addressed. The plan is formally reviewed to evaluate its effectiveness. The views of the adult at risk are integral to this review, and the reasons for closure are recorded. Other processes, such as disciplinary or criminal proceedings, may continue independently.
The Different Types of Abuse and Neglect
Recognizing the diverse forms of harm is crucial for effective safeguarding. An understanding of the following types helps ensure all concerns are identified and addressed appropriately.
| Type of Abuse | Description | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Abuse | The infliction of physical pain or injury. | Unexplained bruises, fractures, or burns; inappropriate use of restraints. |
| Emotional/Psychological Abuse | Infliction of mental or emotional anguish. | Agitation, fear, withdrawal; verbal threats or insults. |
| Financial Abuse | The improper or illegal use of an adult's financial resources. | Missing money or valuables; suspicious financial transactions. |
| Neglect | The refusal or failure of a caregiver to provide basic needs. | Malnutrition, poor hygiene; unsafe or unsanitary living conditions. |
| Self-Neglect | An individual's failure to provide for their own essential needs. | Refusal to take medication; hoarding; inability to perform self-care tasks. |
| Sexual Abuse | Non-consensual sexual contact or behavior. | Physical signs of trauma; comments about inappropriate sexual acts. |
Mental Capacity and the Safeguarding Process
A key consideration throughout the procedure is the mental capacity of the adult at risk. Capacity assessments are decision-specific, meaning an individual might have the capacity to make some decisions but not others.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) provides a framework for acting in the 'best interests' of an individual who lacks capacity. The procedure ensures that those acting on behalf of the person do so with the least restrictive approach possible, always considering the person's past wishes and feelings. Where a person's capacity is fluctuating, their views when they do have capacity must be respected.
Conclusion: A Person-Led and Collaborative Approach
Ultimately, the safeguarding procedure for adults is a system designed to protect the rights of vulnerable individuals to live safely and free from harm. It moves away from a one-size-fits-all approach towards one that is person-led and outcome-focused, engaging the individual in discussions about their safety and well-being. By understanding the principles, recognizing the signs of abuse, and knowing the steps of the procedure, professionals, families, and communities can work together to ensure effective protection. For further details on the six principles of safeguarding, you can consult the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE).
