Your Essential Guide to Safeguarding in Health and Social Care

Introduction

Safeguarding is one of the most important parts of Health and Social Care. It protects people from harm, promotes dignity, and ensures every individual has the right to live safely. But Safeguarding occurs in the everyday moments between staff, the conversations we share, and the culture we create.

Sometimes, that culture begins with something as simple as a check-in between colleagues. These small moments matter. They help build the trust that Safeguarding relies on. When people feel supported, they are far more likely to speak up when something isn’t right.

 

What Safeguarding means Legally and in Practice

Safeguarding adults is defined in law by the Care Act 2014, which places clear duties on local authorities and Care Providers. It requires us to prevent abuse, identify risks early, promote wellbeing, and ensure people can live safely, independently and with dignity.

The Act also outlines when local authorities must carry out a Section 42 Enquiry — a key part of Safeguarding practice when concerns arise.

Safeguarding also connects directly to other legislation, including:

· The Mental Capacity Act 2005, which protects people who may lack capacity.

· The Human Rights Act 1998, ensuring care is lawful, respectful and person-centred.

· The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities), which underpins CQC inspection standards.

 

Together, these laws form the backbone of safe, high-quality care.

In everyday practice, Safeguarding means staying alert to changes in a person’s behaviour, noticing when something feels “off,” and understanding how different risks and types of abuse may present. It means raising concerns promptly, responding with care and clarity, and recording information accurately. Most importantly, it means prioritising the safety and wishes of the individual every time.

 

Recognising Abuse without Overwhelming Staff

Under the Care Act, there are ten categories of abuse that Health and Social Care teams need to be aware of. This includes neglect, financial exploitation, domestic abuse, psychological harm and more. It’s about staying curious, asking questions, and noticing when someone may be at risk.

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to raise it.

 

Safeguarding in a Digital Care Environment

Today, Safeguarding extends far beyond direct interactions. Care teams often work across multiple locations, connect online, and collaborate through digital systems. That’s why professionalism in virtual spaces matters as much as in physical ones.

Safeguarding in the digital world means keeping information secure, communicating professionally on virtual calls, respecting boundaries on personal devices, and ensuring data is shared and stored safely.

Protecting people also means protecting their privacy.

 

Why Safeguarding Training needs to be ongoing

To remain legally compliant and CQC-ready, staff need regular training that is practical, engaging and up-to-date with legislation. Training helps people understand their responsibilities, recognise concerns, follow the right reporting pathways and make correct decisions.

Training should not overwhelm, instead it should build confidence within your staff. Overall this strengthens the entire service.

At CBAT, we deliver specialist Safeguarding training across both Children’s Services and Adult Health and Social Care settings. Our Experts provide tailored guidance and support to help you take the right next steps. Learn more here.

 

Safeguarding is Everyone’s Responsibility

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, whether you deliver care, coordinate services or work remotely. It protects people’s rights and creates a culture where safety and dignity come first.

It is important to have trust and open communication, with small check-ins, supportive leaders and staff who feel confident to raise concerns.

When everyone understands their role, these simple interactions become the foundation of safer, higher-quality care.

 

Find out more about our Safeguarding courses here:

Level 5 Safeguarding Training | Safeguarding Level 5 | CBAT

Advanced Combined Safeguarding Lead Level 4 Training | CBAT

Combined Safeguarding | CBAT Healthcare Training Course