You need to be aware of the relevant legislation, local and national policies and procedures which relate to safeguarding adults.
The Care Act 2014 (introduced in April 2015) aims to simplify and improve on existing legislation for Adult Social Care in England. It sets out a clear legal framework for how local authorities and other parts of the system should protect adults at risk of abuse or neglect. Click HERE to view the legislation online.
The Public Interest Disclosure Information Act 1998 (PIDA) is the key piece of whistleblowing legislation. Click HERE to view the legislation online.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 and DOLS (Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards) empowers and protects vulnerable adults aged 16 and over who are unable to make decisions for themselves. The Mental Capacity Act 2005 allows restrictions and restraints to be used but only if they are in a person’s best interests (DOLS).
The Mental Health Act 1983 (amended 2007) allows people with a ‘mental disorder’ to be admitted to hospital, detained and treated without their consent, either for their own health and safety or for the protection of other people.
The Human Rights Act 1998 clarifies the rights and freedoms of individuals.
The Equality Act 2010 ensures inclusion of all regardless of disability, race, religion, culture etc.
The Data Protection Act 2018 regulates the way in which personal data needs to be handled and therefore protects people’s data from being placed in the wrong hands, which may increase the risk of abuse or neglect. This Act incorporates the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).
Health and Care Act 2022
A new piece of legislation that aims to transform the delivery of NHS services to:
- Improve the integration of NHS and partner services
- Reduce inequalities of access to health services
- Reduce the inequalities of health outcomes for individuals
- Improve multi-agency communication and methods to safeguard the wellbeing of individuals
The legislation summary says it aims to “Place people at the heart of care”.
Click HERE for more details.
Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 was passed to help avoid harm, or risk of harm, by preventing people who are deemed unsuitable to work with children and vulnerable adults from gaining access to them through their work.
You can click HERE for more information.
Everybody working with adults at risk and children has to complete a criminal record check by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
The DBS help employers to make safer recruitment decisions and prevent unsuitable people from working with vulnerable people. Click HERE for more information.
You will need to identify relevant local policies and procedures which relate to safeguarding adults relevant to your role. Your manager can support you with this.
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