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What happens when a concern is raised

Raising a concern

Anyone can raise a safeguarding concern about an adult with care and support needs who may be at risk of abuse or neglect by contacting our Adult Social Care Helpdesk:

Professionals should use the Professionals Safeguarding Referral Portal.

What happens next

If the person is in immediate danger, urgent steps will be taken to keep them safe - either with their consent or in their best interests if they lack capacity.

If there is no immediate danger, professionals meet to decide what should happen. A social worker or another professional will keep the adult informed. Safeguarding meetings may be held to discuss the situation. 

What is a safeguarding meeting?

A safeguarding meeting brings together professionals, the adult at risk, and anyone they want to support them such as a family member or advocate. The adult’s views are central, and if they cannot attend their wishes will still be represented.

The meeting aims to identify and manage risks, plan safeguarding actions, and review the effectiveness of the actions taken. It decides whether an enquiry is needed, who will lead it, and any immediate or longer-term actions to keep the person safe.

How the enquiry process works

If an enquiry is needed, the most appropriate agency - such as the council, police, health staff or care provider - will lead it. The adult will be involved wherever possible and can have an independent advocate to support and represent their views.

The enquiry looks at what happened, what risks remain, and what needs to change to keep the person safe.

After the enquiry

When an enquiry ends, a final safeguarding meeting is usually held to review what happened and agree next steps. The adult at risk is invited and can bring someone for support.

If they are safe, the case is closed. If risks remain, a Safeguarding Plan is put in place to prevent abuse. All actions are recorded securely.