Safeguarding Keeping People Safe

Safeguarding means protecting people from abuse, neglect or harm.

This includes:

• The person you care for
• You, as a carer

Abuse or neglect can happen in many ways, including:

• Physical, emotional or financial harm
• Neglect or lack of care
• Pressure, control or exploitation
• Situations where caring becomes unsafe

Spotting signs of abuse Information for carers

It is not always easy to spot the symptoms of abuse. Someone being abused may make excuses for why they are bruised, they don't want to go out or talk to people, or they are short of money.

It is important to know the signs of abuse and where they are identified, gently share your concerns with the person being abused. If you wait, hoping the person will tell you what's been happening to them, you could delay matters and allow the abuse to continue. 

The lists of possible indicators and examples of behaviour are not exhaustive and people may be subject to a number of abuse types at the same time.

Read more about the most common types of abuse and neglect on our Forms and Signs of Abuse page.

Your Safety Matters Too

Carers can experience harm or be put at risk because of stress, exhaustion, unsafe situations or difficult relationships.

You may need safeguarding support if:

• You feel frightened, threatened or controlled
• You are being financially pressured or exploited
• You feel unsafe at home
• Caring is having a serious impact on your wellbeing

Raising a safeguarding concern does not mean you have failed as a carer.

Reporting a Safeguarding Concern

If you are worried about the safety of:

• The person you care for
• Yourself
• Another adult with care and support needs

You can report a safeguarding concern to Lewisham Adult Social Care.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

You can raise a concern even if you are unsure what is happening. It is better to let Adult Social Care know.

Find out more in our How to Report Your Concerns page.