RCGP Safeguarding toolkit

Responding to concerns about adult abuse can seem complex and challenging, but it is a key part of the holistic care we give our patients. It is a privilege to be able to work alongside our most vulnerable patients to empower and support them, be their advocate and play our part in protecting the basic human rights of all in our communities, particularly those who are unable to protect themselves from harm.

The complexity of adult safeguarding can be summed up in the Department of Health & Social Care ‘Care and support statutory guidance’ (updated October 2023):

“Safeguarding means protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It is about people and organisations working together to prevent and stop both the risks and experience of abuse or neglect, while at the same time making sure that the adult’s wellbeing is promoted including, where appropriate, having regard to their views, wishes, feelings and beliefs in deciding on any action. This must recognise that adults sometimes have complex interpersonal relationships and may be ambivalent, unclear or unrealistic about their personal circumstances.”

There are a number of issues to consider when responding to concerns about adult abuse – refer to the following pages for guidance.