Safeguarding
Aims of Adult Safeguarding
What is PositiAt Helping Hands, we ensure that all our staff take responsibility for safeguarding our customers.ve Behaviour Support (PBS)?
The Care Act statutory guidance defines adult safeguarding as: Protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It is about people and organisations working together to prevent and stop both the risks and experience of abuse or neglect, while at the same time making sure that the adult’s wellbeing is promoted including, where appropriate, having regard to their views, wishes, feelings and beliefs in deciding on any action. This must recognise that adults sometimes have complex interpersonal relationships and may be ambivalent, unclear or unrealistic about their personal circumstances.
Safeguarding at Bamburgh House.
At Bamburgh House, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to ensuring that every service user is safe, respected, and supported in an environment where they can thrive.
Why Safeguarding is Important
Safeguarding is more than just a policy—it is a fundamental responsibility that ensures the wellbeing, dignity, and rights of individuals are protected. Many of our service users may be vulnerable due to disabilities, health conditions, or other challenges, making it crucial to have strong safeguards in place.
By actively promoting a culture of safety, we can:
- Prevent Harm and Abuse – Early intervention and awareness help prevent neglect, exploitation, and mistreatment.
- Encourage Independence and Confidence – When service users feel safe and protected, they can focus on their personal growth, independence, and daily lives without fear.
- Ensure Dignity and Respect – Safeguarding ensures that individuals are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
- Build Trust and Security – A robust safeguarding culture reassures service users, families, and staff that their safety and welfare are a priority.
The Positive Impact of Safeguarding
A strong safeguarding approach has wide-reaching benefits, not only for service users but for families, staff, and the wider community.
For service users, safeguarding fosters a safe environment where they can live fulfilling lives, engage in activities, and develop new skills without fear of harm. Knowing that their rights and wellbeing are prioritised allows them to build trust and confidence in those who support them.
For families and loved ones, safeguarding provides peace of mind. It reassures them that their relatives are receiving high-quality care, free from abuse or neglect. Open communication and clear reporting channels ensure that concerns can be raised and addressed effectively.
For staff and professionals, safeguarding creates a positive workplace culture. When clear policies and training are in place, staff feel empowered to act confidently when issues arise. This reduces stress, improves teamwork, and ensures that everyone is aligned in delivering the highest standard of care.
For the wider community, safeguarding promotes inclusivity and equality. It helps challenge stigma, discrimination, and negative perceptions, ensuring that people with learning disabilities and complex needs are treated fairly and with respect.
Our Commitment to Safeguarding
At Bamburgh House, we have strict safeguarding measures in place to ensure that our service users are fully protected:
- Trained Staff – Every member of our team receives ongoing safeguarding training to identify risks and respond appropriately.
- Clear Policies and Procedures – We follow national safeguarding laws and guidelines, ensuring our processes meet the highest standards.
- Open and Transparent Reporting – We encourage a culture where concerns can be raised without fear of judgment or retaliation.
- Collaborative Working – We work alongside families, local authorities, health professionals, and regulatory bodies to safeguard individuals effectively.
Meet Our Safeguarding Lead
What Does a Safeguarding Lead Do?
- Acts as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
- Provides guidance and support to staff and service users.
- Ensures all safeguarding concerns are reported, recorded, and acted upon appropriately.
- Liaises with external safeguarding teams, local authorities, and regulatory bodies.
- Leads training and awareness sessions to ensure all staff understand their safeguarding responsibilities.
- Monitors safeguarding practices to ensure compliance with national standards and best practices.
How We Promote Safeguarding Awareness
At Bamburgh House, safeguarding is not just a one-time discussion—it is an ongoing conversation embedded in our culture.
We regularly discuss safeguarding during:
- House Meetings – Service users and staff come together to talk about staying safe, recognising concerns, and knowing who to speak to if they feel unsafe.
- Full Company Meetings – Staff are kept up to date with safeguarding procedures, case studies, and best practices to enhance their understanding and confidence in dealing with concerns.
- Training Sessions – We provide regular training on recognising signs of abuse, reporting procedures, and safeguarding responsibilities.
- Supervision and Support – Staff receive continuous support and supervision to ensure they are equipped to handle safeguarding matters effectively.
- Debrief Support Meetings – Staff are invited to a debrief meeting after a significant incident to discuss next steps and to incorporate support and advice from each other.
By keeping safeguarding at the forefront of everything we do, we ensure a safer and more supportive environment for everyone
How to Raise a Safeguarding Concern
If you have any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of a service user, it is vital to take action. You can:
- Speak to a Manager – If your concern is about someone within our services, please contact a manager immediately.
- Report to Local Authorities – To report concerns, contact your local authority’s safeguarding team via the Government website: Find Your Local Council.
- Contact the Care Quality Commission (CQC) – To report concerns about regulated care services, visit: CQC – Report a Concern.
- Call the Police – If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Additional Safeguarding Support
If you need further guidance or support, the following organisations provide safeguarding advice and assistance:
The Essex Safeguarding Adults Board (ESAB) is dedicated to protecting adults in Essex, including Colchester, ensuring they live safely and free from abuse or neglect.
Contact Information:
- Telephone: 03330 131019
- Email: ESAB@essex.gov.uk
- Address: County Hall, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1QH
- Website: www.essexsab.org.uk
Reporting a Concern: If you suspect an adult is at risk of abuse or neglect, you can report your concerns via the Safeguarding Portal. For immediate assistance, contact Essex Adult Social Care at 0345 603 7630. In emergencies where life is in danger, call 999.
For more information and resources, visit the ESAB website.
By working together, we can create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. If you suspect abuse or neglect, do not hesitate to report it—your actions could make a vital difference.
