Our Adult Safeguarding Policy

Kerensa Care and Support
Last Reviewed: February 2025 • Next Review: February 2026

Overview

At Kerensa Care and Support, we are committed to protecting adults at risk from abuse or neglect. This policy outlines our legal obligations, procedures, and commitment to safeguarding adults, particularly those with learning disabilities.

What Is Adult Safeguarding?

Adult safeguarding protects an individual’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It means working together to prevent abuse while promoting wellbeing, autonomy, and dignity.

An “Adult at Risk” Is:

  • Aged 18 or over

  • In need of care and support (even if not receiving them)

  • At risk of or experiencing abuse or neglect

  • Unable to protect themselves due to care and support needs

Our Legal Responsibilities

We follow:

  • Care Act 2014

  • Health and Care Act 2022

  • Mental Capacity Act 2005

  • Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006

  • Regulation 13 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008

We work alongside local authorities, the NHS, police, and other partners to carry out safeguarding responsibilities under the law.

Our Commitment

We aim to:

  • Stop abuse wherever possible

  • Promote the safety, rights, and wellbeing of adults

  • Empower individuals to make choices

  • Raise awareness of abuse and how to report it

  • Address root causes and prevent repeat incidents

Recognising Abuse

Types of abuse include:

  • Physical or sexual abuse

  • Domestic violence

  • Psychological/emotional harm

  • Financial exploitation

  • Discriminatory abuse

  • Modern slavery

  • Self-neglect

  • Organisational abuse (e.g., poor institutional care)

Signs of abuse may include:

  • Unexplained injuries

  • Withdrawal or fearfulness

  • Sudden changes in behaviour or finances

  • Poor hygiene or malnutrition

What to Do If You Have a Concern

If You’re a Member of Staff:

  • Report any concerns immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead:
    Claire Wallace
    📞 07355 840753
    📧 clairewallace@kerensacare.co.uk

  • If someone is in immediate danger, call 999

  • Don’t confront the alleged abuser

  • Support the adult involved, keep detailed records, and report appropriately

If You’re a Service User or Visitor:

  • Speak to any staff member or your key worker

  • Posters and accessible resources in service areas guide you on what to do

  • Confidential reporting via our website or anonymously via our whistleblowing link:
    Anonymous Reporting Link

Our Safeguarding Approach

We follow six key principles:

  1. Empowerment – Supporting informed decision-making

  2. Prevention – Taking action before harm occurs

  3. Proportionality – Responses tailored to level of risk

  4. Protection – Support for those in greatest need

  5. Partnership – Local solutions through joint working

  6. Accountability – Transparency in safeguarding practice

Safeguarding Procedures

How We Respond:

  • Immediate risk is assessed and acted on

  • Concerns reported to Local Authority Safeguarding Team and CQC

  • If a crime is suspected, police are contacted

  • Support and protection measures are provided

Enquiries:

  • May be led by Kerensa or the local authority

  • Always involve the adult concerned (or their advocate)

  • Result in a safeguarding plan if needed

Reporting to the Care Quality Commission (CQC)

We are legally required to notify the CQC of all abuse allegations involving any person using our services. Find more information on CQC statutory notifications:
🔗 CQC Notification Guidance

Training and Staff Support

  • All staff receive safeguarding training during induction and throughout employment

  • Staff are supported through safeguarding enquiries with access to:

    • Employee Assistance Programmes

    • Counselling services

    • Occupational Health

Working with Other Agencies

We ensure that:

  • Information is shared responsibly and securely

  • Multi-agency partnerships support investigations

  • Lessons are learned from past incidents and used to improve future safeguarding

Making Safeguarding Personal (MSP)

We promote a person-led approach, where the adult defines:

  • What risk means to them

  • What outcomes they want

  • How they want risks managed

This leads to better control, trust, and outcomes.

Contact Information

Designated Safeguarding Lead
Claire Wallace
📞 07355 840753
📧 clairewallace@kerensacare.co.uk

Cornwall Safeguarding Adults Board
🔗 https://ciossafeguarding.org.uk/sab

Devon & Cornwall Police (Non-Emergency)
🔗 https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk

Related Policies

  • Code of Conduct

  • Mental Capacity

  • Confidentiality

  • Whistleblowing

  • Safer Recruitment

  • Restraint and Positive Behaviour Support

  • Safeguarding Children in Adult Settings

Accessibility

This policy is available:

  • In print and digital format

  • As an easy-read version

  • In alternative formats upon request

To request a copy or alternative version, please contact the Registered Manager.