Safeguarding Children, Young People and Adults
If you are being abused, know of someone who is being abused, or think someone may be at risk, it is important that you inform the right people.
We want to reassure you that the people you talk to will take your concerns seriously, provide support and guidance, and take action to ensure everyone’s safety.
Please speak to a member of staff who will help you get the help you need. All our staff are trained in confidentiality and safeguarding.
What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding is defined as protecting people’s health, wellbeing and human rights, enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect. It is fundamental to high‑quality health and social care.
Adult at Risk
A person aged 18 or over who is in need of care and support—or who already receives care and support—and therefore cannot protect themselves from harm, abuse or neglect.
Child or Young Person
Any person, male or female, under the age of 18 who is in need of care and support—or who already receives care and support—and therefore cannot protect themselves from harm, abuse or neglect.
Types of Abuse
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Physical | Hitting, biting, shaking, pushing |
| Sexual | Any sexual contact which is non‑consensual |
| Emotional | Humiliation, intimidation, verbal abuse |
| Neglect | Ignoring or refusing basic care needs |
| Self‑neglect | Inability to care for oneself |
| Discriminatory | Values, beliefs or culture misused to exert power |
| Institutional | Misuse of power and lack of respect by professionals, poor practice |
| Financial | Use of an individual’s funds without consent or authorisation |
| Modern slavery | Human trafficking, servitude and forced labour |
Who Can Abuse?
Abuse can occur anywhere - home, care settings, hospitals, colleges, schools, or public places. Potential perpetrators include:
- Family members or friends
- Other patients or those at risk
- Young people
- Care workers or volunteers
- Professionals
- Strangers
Report Suspected Abuse Immediately
If you suspect or know that someone is at risk of harm, abuse, or neglect, report it now.
Contact Details
Concerned About a Child? Who to Contact
- Staffordshire Children’s Advice and Support (SCAS)
- Telephone: 0300 111 8007
- Website: www.staffsscb.org.uk
- Non‑emergency police: 101
- Emergency: 999
Concerned About an Adult? Who to Contact
- Staffordshire Council
- Telephone: 0345 604 2719
- Website: www.staffordshire.gov.uk
- Non‑emergency police: 101
- Emergency: 999
Organisation leads
- Dr Grewal – Adult Safeguarding Lead
- Dr Grewal – Child Safeguarding Lead
Safeguarding is the responsibility of everybody.