What safeguarding means
Safeguarding is about protecting people's right to live free from abuse, neglect and harm. In home care, this covers physical, emotional, financial and other forms of abuse or neglect.
What a good provider should do
A responsible provider trains staff to recognise signs of harm, has a clear safeguarding policy, and knows how to report concerns promptly to the right people, including the local authority safeguarding team where needed.
Signs to be aware of
Unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behaviour or mood, unexplained financial changes, or a decline in home conditions can all be signs worth discussing with a professional.
What to do if you're concerned
If you're worried about someone's safety, you can raise it with the care provider, contact the local authority's adult safeguarding team, or in an emergency call 999 or the police.
Reporting concerns about a provider
If your concern relates to the behaviour of a care provider or carer, you can also raise it with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which regulates care services in England.
Common questions
Who do I contact if I'm worried about someone's safety?
Contact your local authority's adult safeguarding team, or in an emergency call 999. You can also raise concerns with the care provider directly.