Copeland Counselling is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all clients. This safeguarding policy outlines my approach to protecting adults from harm, abuse, and neglect.
Definitions
Safeguarding: Protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect.
Adult at Risk: A person aged 18 or over who may need community care services due to mental or other disability, age, or illness, and who is or may be unable to take care of themselves or protect themselves against significant harm or exploitation.
Abuse: A violation of an individual’s human and civil rights by another person or persons. This includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and psychological abuse.
Legal Framework
This policy has been developed in accordance with the following legislation and guidance:
– The Care Act 2014
– The Mental Capacity Act 2005
– The Human Rights Act 1998
– The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
– The Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
Recognising Abuse
Abuse can take many forms. It is crucial to be able to recognise the signs of abuse, which may include but are not limited to:
– Unexplained injuries or a history of frequent injuries
– Changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal or aggression
– Fearfulness or anxiety around certain individuals or situations
– Sudden financial difficulties
Responsibilities
I understand my safeguarding responsibilities and have undertaken appropriate training.
I shall remain vigilant and proactive in identifying potential safeguarding issues and report any concerns to my supervisor.
It is also my duty to manage any reports of safeguarding concerns, and liaise with external agencies as necessary.
Reporting and Responding to Concerns
If I have a concern about the safety or well-being of an adult, I must report it immediately to my supervisor. The following steps will then be taken:
Observation: Note the signs or disclosures that have raised the concern.
Reporting: Liaise with my supervisor without delay.
Recording: Keep a detailed, confidential record of the concern and any actions taken.
Action: I will assess the concern and decide on the appropriate course of action, which may include:
– Speaking with the adult concerned, if appropriate.
– Consulting with external safeguarding authorities or adult social services.
– Making a formal referral to the appropriate agency.
Confidentiality
All safeguarding concerns and reports will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. Information should only be shared on a need-to-know basis to protect the individual and to ensure appropriate action is taken.
Training
Although I have undertaken extensive safeguarding training, I partake in regular updates to ensure I am aware of current best practices and legal requirements.
Review of Policy
This policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if there are changes in legislation or best practices. The next review date is 5/7/24
Contact Information
For any safeguarding concerns, please contact:
Rachel Copeland MBACP Dip Counselling Practitioner
07573241144
Email via Contact Form >
Local Authority Adult Social Services
01702 215008
Police
999 (in emergencies
References
– Care Act 2014
– Mental Capacity Act 2005
– Human Rights Act 1998
– Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
– Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
