Safeguarding decision flow

From "something's wrong" to the right people knowing: immediate safety, the three-part test, referral, recording and speaking up.

Educational aid only. These walkthroughs are simplified educational aids. They do not cover every circumstance and are not legal or clinical advice. Always follow your organisation’s procedures and the current official guidance, and ask your manager or safeguarding lead when unsure.

When you're worried about abuse or neglect, this flow rehearses the sequence: safety first, disclosures handled well, the Care Act three-part test, and who to tell — including when the concern is about your own organisation.

It never replaces your safeguarding procedure or your local authority's process. Read the full Safeguarding Adults topic alongside it.

Check the source

Care Act 2014, section 42 (opens in new tab)legislation.gov.uk
Care and Support statutory guidance, chapter 14 (GOV.UK) (opens in new tab)gov.uk
SCIE: safeguarding adults (opens in new tab)scie.org.uk

Reminder: Educational reference only. Nothing on this site is legal, clinical or professional advice. Guidance changes: always check the current official source before acting. Full disclaimer.