Principles of safeguarding and protection in health and social care

Unit aim

This unit is aimed at those working in a wide range of settings. This unit introduces the important area of safeguarding individuals from abuse. It identifies different types of abuse and the signs and symptoms that might indicate abuse is occurring. It considers when individuals might be particularly vulnerable to abuse and what a learner must do if abuse is suspected or alleged.

Outcome 1 Know how to recognise signs of abuse

1. define the following types of abuse:

• Physical abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Emotional/psychological abuse

• Financial abuse

• Institutional abuse

• Self neglect

• Neglect by others

2. identify the signs and/or symptoms associated with each type of abuse.

3. describe factors that may contribute to an individual being more vulnerable to abuse.

Outcome 2 Know how to respond to suspected or alleged abuse

1. explain the actions to take if there are suspicions that an individual is being abused

2. explain the actions to take if an individual alleges that they are being abused

3. identify ways to ensure that evidence of abuse is preserved.

Outcome 3 Understand the national and local context of safeguarding and protection from abuse

1. identify national policies and local systems that relate to safeguarding and protection from abuse

2. explain the roles of different agencies in safeguarding and protecting individuals from abuse

3. identify reports into serious failures to protect individuals from abuse

4. identify sources of information and advice about own role in safeguarding and protecting individuals from abuse.

Outcome 4 Understand ways to reduce the likelihood of abuse

1. explain how the likelihood of abuse may be reduced by:

• working with person centred values

• encouraging active participation

• promoting choice and rights

2. explain the importance of an accessible complaints procedure for reducing the likelihood of abuse.

Outcome 5 Know how to recognise and report unsafe practices

1. describe unsafe practices that may affect the well-being of individuals

2. explain the actions to take if unsafe practices have been identified

3. describe the action to take if suspected abuse or unsafe practices have been reported but nothing has been done in response.