Creating Safer Places
Safeguarding must happen at a grassroots level- it is everyone’s responsibility to make the places they live, work, and play safer for everyone. Abuse can happen anywhere, in people’s own homes, in care and nursing homes, in hospitals or out in the community. The people who carry out abuse and are responsible for the harm or risk can be from all walks of life, family members, neighbours, health professionals, care workers or even total strangers.
If you suspect that a vulnerable person is being abused or neglected, please report this via:
- Family Connect on 01952 385385 (Monday to Friday from 9am - 5pm)
- Emergency Duty Team on 01952 676500 (Monday to Sunday after 5pm) or
- West Mercia Police on 0300 333 3000 or 101.
Safe Places Telford
The Safe Place Scheme is a nationwide initiative established by Mencap. The scheme is designed to support the needs of Adults with Learning Disabilities, but is appropriate for anyone who feels vulnerable. Locations advertise they are a Safe Place by displaying a sticker. This tells people who may become vulnerable whilst out and about, that they can receive support and assurance at that location. They will be safe. View a list of places involved locally on the Shropshire disability website and view the map on Google maps.
- It is important to never assume safeguarding is someone else’s problem.
- We must all learn about the different types of harm and abuse, as we have done by taking a close look at adult grooming on Tuesday.
- We must know how to spot the signs of abuse, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic where usual meetings and social events may be suspended, or happening virtually or at a distance.
- It is important to record any concerns that you might have, and then report them to Telford & Wrekin Council (or the relevant local authority safeguarding board).
- It is so important to work together to protect adult’s rights to live free from abuse, and from neglect.
- If you would like, there is an excellent safeguarding checklist on the Ann Craft Trust website, which you can take to see where your understanding is strong and where it can be improved.