Diogelu

Safeguarding is about protecting the rights of an adult, young person or child to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It is also about doing as much as possible to prevent abuse from happening by raising awareness and understanding.

Safeguarding is everybody’s business.

Signs of abuse

We all have a role in spotting when things aren’t right. It is especially important we are all aware of signs to look out for, which may indicate someone is at risk of harm or abuse:

• Unusual injuries, including bruises, burns, fractures, bite marks or signs of self-harm.
• Consistently poor hygiene, poor living conditions or inappropriate clothing.
• Communicating aggressively or using sexual language.
• Appearing withdrawn, guarded, anxious or frightened, particularly around certain individuals.
• Hearing or seeing shouting, violence, or intimidation.
• Adults keeping children, or adults in need of support, from view.
• Unsupervised children visiting a house where only adults live.

What to do about abuse

If you or someone you know is being abused and is in immediate danger, you need to do something straight away to stop them or others being hurt. You should ring 999 and tell the operator what is happening.

If you are concerned about someone else, you should report it to your local council.

For more information