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Safeguarding Adults and Children

 

At South Downs Health and Care (SDHC), we are committed to protecting vulnerable adults and children from abuse and neglect. Abuse can take many forms, and it is crucial that patients, carers, and the community know how to recognise the signs and take action.

 

Types of Abuse and Neglect

  • Sexual Abuse: Any unwanted sexual contact or behaviour.
  • Physical Abuse: Causing physical harm through hitting, slapping, or other forms of violence.
  • Psychological Abuse: Emotional harm through threats, intimidation, humiliation, or isolation.
  • Domestic Abuse: Violence, controlling, or coercive behaviour in a relationship.
  • Discriminatory Abuse: Treating someone unfairly based on characteristics such as age, disability, race, or gender.
  • Financial Abuse: Stealing, fraud, or misuse of someone’s finances or assets.
  • Neglect: Failing to meet basic needs such as food, medication, or personal care.
 

What to Do If You Think You Are Being Abused or Neglected

If you feel you are being abused or neglected, it is essential to take action:

  1. Talk to Someone You Trust: Tell a friend, family member, or care worker about what’s happening.
  2. Seek Professional Help: Speak with your GP, social worker, or another healthcare professional.
 

Reporting Concerns About Others

If you suspect someone is being abused or neglected, it’s important to report your concerns as soon as possible.

Adults at Risk

If you are worried that someone is being abused or neglected, contact Health and Social Care Connect

If you are an older adult in need of assistance or have concerns about the abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult, contact the Hourglass Helpline for confidential support

Call the police

In situations where you, or an adult you suspect is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.

Children at Risk

If a child is in immediate danger or has sustained an injury, contact the Single Point of Advice (SPOA)

Call the police

In situations where you, or a child you suspect is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.

 

SDHC’s Commitment to Safeguarding

At SDHC, we are dedicated to promoting the safety and dignity of vulnerable individuals. Our Safeguarding Policy ensures that:

We work to prevent abuse by promoting good practice and ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults and children.
Any concerns of abuse or neglect are handled appropriately, with support provided to those affected.
We will refer concerns to adult or children's services when necessary, working within the legal framework of safeguarding laws, such as the Care Act 2014.
SDHC staff are trained to recognise signs of abuse and to act when concerns arise.