Information about Safeguarding

What is abuse or neglect?

As a Personal Assistant your role is to take care of your client. Abuse can happen anywhere and can be carried out by anyone, and part of your role includes safeguarding your client against abuse and neglect.

There may be signs that could include;

• Physical abuse
• Domestic Violence or abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Psychological or emotional abuse
• Financial or material abuse
• Modern Slavery
• Discriminatory abuse
• Organisational or institutional abuse
• Neglect or act of omission
• Self Neglect

• It is vital to act quickly if you suspect your client is being abused. The longer you wait to tell someone the more your client is going to get hurt. If you do suspect your client is being abused, then:
• Try to directly speak with your client. Try to get them to open up and feel comfortable about talking about this. If not, then speak to others who know them. Maybe family members or friends. Try to see if they have noticed anything off about your client, or if they have been told about the abuse.
• If you think your client is in immediate danger or suffering a medical emergency, then contact emergency services by calling 999              

Personal Assistants who work with vulnerable adults have a responsibility to report any safeguarding concerns, even if it means breaking confidentiality with the person they are supporting. Personal Assistants must act promptly if they have any suspicion or concern that a vulnerable adult or a child is being abused, neglected, or exploited.

Information about making a referral can be found on

Hampshire - Report a safeguarding concern to Hampshire County Council 

Southampton - Report a safeguarding concern to Southampton City Council 

• What is abuse - information from Hampshire Safeguarding Adults Board.

What do I do if I’m being abused?

If you have been subjected to abuse by your client, it is important that you speak out about this.

This may be difficult, since maybe you worry it will make the abuse worse or that your client is not to blame as their condition means they are in pain or scared. However, abuse is never okay and so your concerns will be taken seriously.

There are lots of people you can talk to. For example:

• Someone you trust (e.g. family members, friends)
• Your GP
• Social services

Further useful information can be found on Hampshire Safeguarding Adults Board