This course will provide an introduction to help understand what is meant by 'Safeguarding Adults' and why it is so important. We will think about what factors that might make an adult vulnerable, and learn how to recognise the different types of abuse. 

By the end of the course we hope to meet the following objectives: 

1. Understand what safeguarding adults means and why it is important
2. To be aware of those adults who are most vulnerable to abuse or neglect, as well as who the most common perpetrators are
3. To be aware of the different types of abuse and what makes an adult vulnerable
4. To be aware of the key legislation that applies to safeguarding, and how this is applied

We need to be mindful as we work through this course that thinking about abuse and safeguarding issues can be distressing, particularly if it reminds you of some of your own experiences. It is therefore worth taking a moment to reflect on your support mechanisms and structures and who you would talk to if needed. This could be: 

• Your line manager or volunteer coordinator
• A trusted colleague 
• A friend 
• A help or support line (there is a downloadable sheet within this lecture detailing relevant support organisations relating to different types of abuse which may be helpful to speak to someone anonymously)  
• Taking some time out alone for personal reflection

This is all part of good practice and self-care which allows us to stay in tune and alert to distress and risk, rather than being overwhelmed, burned out or at risk of turning away from concerns without meaning to.

Additional resources

• Pocket Principles of Protection (england.nhs.uk) This is a great pocket guide to download and refer to which highlights the main principles of safeguarding, summarises the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, Deprivation of Liberties and the different types of abuse.
• Safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk in the NHS: Safeguarding accountability and assurance framework. This is a detailed document which sets out clearly the safeguarding roles, duties and responsibilities of all organisations commissioning NHS healthcare.