If there is a suspicion that an individual is being abused in anyway there are a number actions that need to be adhered to

If there is a suspicion that an individual is being abused in anyway there are a number actions that need to be adhered to. As a carer I have a responsibility to safeguard the residents and ensure their safety. It is important to remember that if acts of abuse are taking place the individual may not be aware they are being abused and even more sensitivity is required.
The actions I would take if I suspected abuse is to raise my concerns with my line manager about the abuse or if necessary a higher level of management, should the abuse involve my direct line manager. I would also speak to the individual about the abuse but not press for answers being mindful that this will be done at a later stage of any investigations. I would also record my suspicions in the patient’s records to ensure there was an auditable trail and could be used as evidence if necessary.
County level and Unitary local authorities must have Local Authority
Designated Officers (LADO). This role relates to:
? The management and oversight of individual cases
? Providing advice and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations
? Liaising with the Police and Children’s Social Care
? Monitoring the progress of cases to ensure that they are dealt with as quickly and consistently as possible through the use of fair and thorough process
? Chairing multi-agency meetings when allegations do not immediately reach the threshold of section 47 enquiries