If the Safeguarding Principles are to be applied at the front-line, then practitioners need to have the necessary knowledge and skills and be supported by managers and regional safeguarding boards. These managers should provide a working environment that is conducive to the application of the safeguarding principles to practice. In other words, they need to create an environment that leads to an effective safeguarding system. Moreover, staff should have the knowledge and skills to apply, both the safeguarding principles and those underpinning an effective safeguarding system, to practice.
The Guidance Handling Individual Cases principles underpinning effective safeguarding systems describes the principles that should underpin safeguarding systems if practitioners are to safeguard for both children and adults at risk.
Principle 1:
The individual’s personal outcomes are known and they are able to communicate them effectively;
Principle 2:
The needs of the individual are put first, so that the adult receives the care and support they need before a problem escalates.
Principle 3:
All professionals who come into contact with adults at risk are trained and alert to their needs including any potential or suspected abuse or risk of abuse or neglect.
Principle 4:
All professionals share appropriate information in a timely way, and have direct access to advice to discuss any concerns about an individual.
Principle 5:
All professionals are able to use their expert judgement to put the individual’s needs and personal outcomes at the centre of the system so that the right solution can be found for them.
Principle 6:
All professionals work in a multi-agency and co-operative way to safeguard and promote an adult at risk’s well-being and regularly review progress against the outcomes set out in care and support plans.