In a perfect world, no one would have to worry about their safety or well-being. But unfortunately, many individuals particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults face real risks every day. But the reality is that many people, often the most vulnerable in our society, are at risk of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. This is where safeguarding comes in. It is a term you might have heard at work, seen in a policy document, or come across in the news. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly, what should you do if you suspect someone is being harmed?
This blog is your comprehensive guide to understanding safeguarding and taking action. Whether you are a concerned citizen, a volunteer, or a professional, knowing this information is crucial.
What is the definition of safeguarding?
Safeguarding is the process of protecting people’s health, well-being, and human rights. It ensures that individuals especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults are kept safe from harm, abuse, and neglect. Safeguarding is broader than just child protection. While child protection focuses specifically on protecting children from abuse and neglect, safeguarding applies to both children and adults at risk.
In practice, safeguarding means:
- Protecting individuals from maltreatment and abuse
- Preventing harm to health or development
- Ensuring people can live in safe and supportive environments
- Empowering individuals to make informed choices about their lives
What are 6 principles of Safeguarding?
Safeguarding is built on six fundamental principles, established by the UK government for adults but widely applicable to all safeguarding work:
- Empowerment: Supporting people to make their own decisions and give informed consent.
Example: I am asked what I want to happen.
- Prevention: Taking action before harm occurs.
Example: I receive clear and simple information about what abuse is and how to recognise the signs.
- Proportionality: Responding in the least intrusive way appropriate to the risk presented.
Example: I am sure that the professionals will work in my best interest and only get involved as much as needed.
- Protection: Providing support and representation for those in greatest need.
Example: I get help and support to report abuse and neglect.
- Partnership: Working with local communities to prevent and detect risks.
Example: I know that staff treat any personal and sensitive information in confidence, only sharing what is necessary.
- Accountability: Ensuring everyone is accountable for their role in safeguarding.
Example: I understand the role of everyone involved in my life.
What is the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006?
The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (SVGA) stands as a crucial element of UK law aimed at ensuring the safety of children and vulnerable adults from potential harm. It emerged in response to significant child protection failures and set up a legal structure aimed at ensuring safer recruitment and working methods.
The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) manage the Vetting and Barring Scheme by the Act. It includes that individuals with posing the potential harm can be excluded from working with vulnerable adults.
Who Are Vulnerable Groups?
People who are at risk of harm, abuse and neglect due to their age, needs and circumstances are called vulnerable groups in safeguarding. In case of happening wrong, they cannot always be able to speak up and protect themselves.
It includes:
- Children and young people – anyone under 18
- Adults at risk – individuals with care and support needs who may struggle to protect themselves.
- Elderly people – especially who are fragile, dependent on others for care.
- People with disabilities or learning difficulties – who cannot care themselves.
- Individuals with mental health needs – who are open to neglect and exploitation.
- Those facing social disadvantage – Factors those who increase vulnerability, such as homelessness, substance misuse, or language barriers.
How to Raise a Safeguarding Concern: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing how to act if you suspect abuse or neglect is crucial. Here are the key steps:
Recognise the Signs
If feeling something is amiss, it is time to report it. Be vigilant to changes in behaviour, unusual situations and injuries.
Record What You See or Hear
Your concerns, including dates, times, names, and specific details should be clearly noted. Avoid assumptions and mention facts.
Report to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
In schools, workplaces, or organisations, there will be a Designated Safeguarding Lead. Share your concern with them immediately.
Contact External Agencies if Necessary
If the situation is urgent or life-threatening, contact:
The police – in emergencies, dial 999 in the UK.
Local authority safeguarding teams – they have a duty to investigate concerns.
NSPCC helpline (UK) – 0808 800 5000 (for child safeguarding concerns).
Follow Up
After raising the concern, ensure that action has been taken. Your responsibility is to report, not to investigate – but following up ensures the issue is not overlooked.
Why Speaking Up Truly Matters?
It is easy to assume someone else will act, but speaking up is vital. Your voice matters because:
- 🚨 You could save a life – Even a small concern may prevent tragedy.
- 🗣️ You give a voice to the voiceless – Speaking up breaks the silence abusers rely on.
- 🧩 You complete the puzzle – One report can be the missing piece professionals need.
- 🤝 It’s our shared duty – Protecting the vulnerable is everyone’s responsibility.
- ✅ Better safe than sorry – A good-faith concern is always valued; silence risks ongoing harm.
Conclusion:
Safeguarding is not just a task for social workers, teachers, or healthcare professionals. It is everyone’s responsibility. We all have a role to play in creating safer communities. By understanding what safeguarding is, recognising the signs of abuse, and having the courage to speak up, you can make a profound difference. You could be the voice for someone who has been silenced. Don’t stay silent. If you see something, say something.