Safeguarding means enabling people to live their lives free from harm, abuse and neglect, and to have their health, wellbeing and human rights protected.
Those most at risk and in need of protection include:
- Children and young people
- Adults with an impairment of or a disturbance in the functioning of the mind or brain that affects their mental capacity, such that they cannot make decisions or take actions to protect themselves from significant harm or serious exploitation
- Adults whose circumstances may lead them to be vulnerable, including those who are receiving care in a community or hospital setting and who have physical or sensory impairments or mental health problems
It is the responsibility of NHS organisations which commission or provide care to children and vulnerable adults, to provide a safe environment that promotes their health and well-being and aids their recovery from illness or injury. Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from harm is an essential component of health and social care.