Safeguarding is integral to promoting the wellbeing of service users. And you can’t have effective safeguarding without watertight policies and highly focused staff development. But it is culture that counts more than anything.
Somebody once defined culture as ‘what we do when nobody’s looking.’ A care provider that is fully committed to the wellbeing of service users will do the following as a priority and a matter of course:
- Empower and support service users to make decisions about their care and give informed consent.
- Train staff to understand risks and signs of neglect so they can take prompt action to prevent abuse or neglect occurring.
- Always use the least intrusive response appropriate to the risk presented and work with
people in their best interests. - Be person centered and always looking for the best outcome for the service user.
- Understand that everyone has a vulnerability and that safeguarding duty of care extends beyond those receiving care.
- Work actively with other partners and the Safeguarding Adults Board (SAB) to make sure that neglect and abuse are prevented, detected and quickly reported.
- Be committed to meticulous record keeping, transparency and data protection.
Implementing appropriate safeguarding procedures is a fundamental need. But what ensures that people are always kept safe is how the training and guidance you provide reinforces a positive culture.
In a culture committed to promoting wellbeing people are always asking questions: Are we doing the best for every service user? Is the care we deliver what they really want and need? Are they at risk? And are they as contented as it is possible to make them?
Safeguarding is a state of mind as much as a process – and leaders of the organisation have a responsibility to set the tone and the expectations.
To find out more about the training Redcrier can provide around Safeguarding and a range of other care subjects take a look at our website or get in touch on 01823 332200.
