What to do right away if you suspect abuse or neglect

If you suspect abuse or neglect, act immediately. First consider safety: is the adult at immediate risk, do they need urgent medical attention, or is anyone else at risk? If there is immediate danger or a serious crime may have occurred, call 999 and follow the home's emergency procedures.

Stay calm and take the concern seriously. If the adult discloses something, listen without interrupting and reassure them that telling you was the right thing to do. Do not promise to keep it secret; explain that you must share the information with the appropriate people so they can be protected.

Do not investigate alone, confront the alleged abuser in an unsafe way, or ask long leading questions. Your responsibility is to protect the person, listen, make an accurate record, and report. If people need to be separated or staff duties adjusted for safety, arrange this through local procedures and with senior staff.

When the concern involves another resident, that person may also need support and risk management while the matter is assessed. Safeguarding focuses on reducing risk and protecting everyone in the setting while the relevant leads or agencies take the next steps.

Immediate response checklist

• Make sure the adult is safe and seek emergency help if needed.
• Listen, reassure, and do not promise secrecy.
• Inform the senior on duty or safeguarding lead straight away.
• Do not investigate alone or delay because you are unsure.

Listen, protect, record, and report. Do not promise secrecy, investigate alone, or delay because the concern feels difficult.