1.1 Explain what is meant by ‘safeguarding’.
The protection of people’s health, well-being, and human rights is known as safeguarding. It encompasses safeguarding people against danger, exploitation, and abuse. People’s safety and security are also promoted by guaranteeing their access to services and support.
There are numerous ways to protect people, but some of the most important are as follows: listen to someone if they tell you they are being hurt or feel unsafe; believe them when they say something has happened to them; take action to protect them from further harm, and support them as they seek help and justice.
Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone, not just ‘professionals’ like teachers or social workers. We are all responsible for keeping each other safe. The six principles of adult safeguarding are as follows.
Empowerment – Adults have the right to make their own decisions and choices. They should be encouraged to do so, but they should also be safeguarded if they are unable to make their own decisions or are at risk of being exploited.
Prevention – It is preferable to prevent harm from occurring in the first place rather than attempting to fix it after it has occurred. This means that if we suspect that someone is in danger, we must act quickly.
Proportionality – The response to safeguarding issues should be proportional to the amount of risk. This means that not every worry will necessitate a full-scale inquiry, but some may necessitate more thorough involvement to keep people safe.
Partnership working: In order to keep people secure, it’s critical that many agencies and organisations properly collaborate. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Protection – Adults who are at risk of harm have the right to be safe from abuse and exploitation. This includes the right to accept public assistance and protection if they are unable to protect themselves.
Participation – As much as possible, adults should be involved in decisions concerning their own support and care. They should also be informed about what is happening at each level of the procedure in order to make informed decisions about their future.
Other answers in the full document:
- 1.2 Explain how safeguarding:
– Keeps individuals safe
– Value individual needs
– Protects individuals - 1.3. Explain how Health and social care practitioners can take steps to safeguard themselves.
- 2.1. Summarise current legislation in relation to safeguarding.
- 2.2. Describe the relationship between legislation, policy and procedure.
- 2.3. Identify policy and procedures in relation to safeguarding.
- 3.1. Explain factors that may contribute to an individual being vulnerable to harm or abuse
- 4.1. Describe signs, symptoms, indicators and behaviours that may cause concern relating to:
– Physical abuse
– Sexual abuse
– Domestic abuse
– Emotional abuse
– Neglect - 5.1. Explain the boundaries of confidentiality in relation to the safeguarding, protection and welfare of individuals
- 6.1. Evaluate the role and responsibilities of the health and social care practitioner in relation to safeguarding individuals.