Principles and Values
- This policy is based on the following key principles:
- no abuse is acceptable
- every person has a right to live a life free from abuse, neglect and fear
- safeguarding is everyone’s business and responsibility
- support is in place for adults to prevent abuse from occurring and following incidents of abuse
- safeguarding work should empower adults at risk
- interventions should support choice and seek to meet the desired outcomes of the adult at risk
- all reports of abuse or neglect will be treated seriously
- every person should be able, where possible, to access information about how to protect themselves from abuse and neglect
- safeguarding work is aimed at the prevention of and/or the swift and proportionate response to abuse and neglect
- all partner agencies across Berkshire should work collaboratively to ensure accountability, transparency and appropriate professional challenge around the issues of reporting, intervention, protection and support.
- people working with or involved in supporting adults with care and support needs must have the appropriate knowledge, skills and training to effectively safeguarding adults at risk
The Care Act and the Care and Support Statutory Guidance sets out the statutory requirement for Local Authorities, Health, Police and other agencies to develop and assess the effectiveness of their local safeguarding relationships. This is founded on the six key principles:
Empowerment – people being supported and encouraged to make their own decisions and informed consent: “I am asked what I want as the outcomes from the safeguarding process and these directly inform what happens”.
Prevention – it is better to take action before harm occurs: “I received clear and simple information about what abuse is, how to recognise the signs and what I can do to seek help”.
Proportionality – the least intrusive response appropriate to the risk presented: “I am sure that the professionals will work in my interest, as I seem them and they will only get involved as much as needed”.
Protection – support and representation for those in greatest need: I get help and support to report abuse and neglect. I get help so that I am able to take part in the safeguarding process to the extent to which I want”.
Partnership – local solutions through services working with their communities. Communities have a part to play in preventing, detecting and reporting abuse and neglect: “I know that staff treat any personal and sensitive information in confidence and only share what is helpful and necessary. I am confident that professionals will work together and with me to get the best results for me”.
Accountability – accountability and transparency in delivering safeguarding: “I understand the role of everyone involved in my life and so do they”.