1. Initial contact
A social worker will review the concern and aim to contact both the person who raised it and the adult at risk within 2 working days. If someone is in immediate danger, action will be taken straight away with support from other professionals (e.g. police, health).
2. Understanding the situation
The social worker will gather information to understand the adult’s circumstances. If the concern doesn’t meet safeguarding criteria, it may be closed with advice or referral to another service. You will be informed of the outcome.
3. Establishing the person’s desired outcomes
The person will be asked what they want to happen as an outcome of the safeguarding referral.
The social worker will help to ensure they are aware of the possibilities, as well as being aware of our limitations.
4. If it is a Safeguarding issue
The social worker will:
- Speak to the adult at risk to understand their wishes and get their consent
- Work with other agencies to gather relevant information
- Keep both the adult and the referrer updated (though full details may not be shared due to privacy).
5. Supporting adults without capacity
If the adult can’t understand the risks, the social worker will establish if anybody has legal authority to make health and welfare decisions on behalf of the person (Lasting Power of Attorney or Deputyship) and decisions will be made in their best interests. An independent Advocate may get involved to support them in making decisions and expressing their views.
6. Safeguarding Plan
If the adult is still at risk, a Safeguarding Plan will be created to reduce or prevent further harm. This will involve working with relevant agencies and should be completed within 7 working days.
7. Further enquiry (if needed)
If the situation is complex or involves multiple people, a more detailed enquiry may take up to 28 working days (or longer if needed). The adult will be involved throughout, and meetings may be held to discuss progress and next steps.
8. Outcome
At the end of the enquiry:
- The adult will be asked if they feel we have achieved their desired outcomes
- The referrer will be updated, though some details may be withheld for privacy
- All information will be securely recorded in the Council’s care system.