Safeguarding
About safeguarding
What is Safeguarding?
Everybody has the right to be safe, no matter who they are or what their circumstances may be. Safeguarding is about protecting children, young people, and adults at risk from abuse, neglect, or harm.
Who is a child or young person?
In terms of safeguarding, a child or young person is defined in law as anyone who has not yet reached their 18th birthday.
Who is an adult at risk?
An adult at risk is someone aged 18 or over who:
- Has needs for care and support (whether or not those needs are being met)
- Is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect
- As a result of these needs are unable to protect themselves against the abuse, neglect or is at risk of abuse or neglect
Who has responsibility for reporting concerns?
Everyone has a moral duty to promote the safety and welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk of harm.