Carers and Safeguarding

Circumstances in which an informal carer could be involved in a situation that may require a safeguarding response include:

• • a carer may witness or speak up about abuse or neglect
  • a carer may experience intentional or unintentional harm from the adult they are trying to support or from professionals and organisations they are in contact with
  • or a carer may unintentionally or intentionally harm or neglect the adult they support

If a carer discloses abuse or neglect, it is essential they are listened to and that this responded whether through carers assessment, enquiry or supporting involvement with other agencies. This response may vary across Berkshire.

In some cases, the carer may need to have independent representation or

Where a criminal offence is suspected, this will need to be reported to Police.

Efforts should be made to involve carers in safeguarding enquiries for the person they care for, if the adult gives their consent, or it determined to be their best interests, in many cases the carer will be representing the adult in the enquiry. Provided there is no conflict of interest.