For more information, read the full policy by downloading the accessible Word document at the end of this page.
Who the policy applies to
- Patients, families and carers
- NHS Essex staff
- Organisations providing NHS services in Essex
- Partner organisations working with health and care services
Why this policy is important
Everyone has the right to live free from harm and abuse.
This policy helps to:
- protect people who may be at risk
- make sure concerns are taken seriously
- support early action to prevent harm
- promote safe, fair and respectful care
It also supports joined-up working between health, social care and other services to keep people safe.
Keeping people safe
Safeguarding means protecting people from harm and making sure they are safe and supported.
This includes:
- babies, children and young people
- adults who may need extra support
- families and carers
Staff must act quickly if they are worried about someone’s safety.
Recognising abuse and neglect
Abuse can happen in many ways and in different places.
It can include:
- physical harm or violence
- emotional or psychological harm
- sexual abuse
- neglect or not meeting basic needs
- financial abuse or exploitation
Abuse can happen at home, in the community or online.
Acting on concerns
If there is a concern about someone’s safety:
- staff must assess the risk and take action
- emergency help should be called if needed
- concerns should be reported to the right services
- clear records should be kept
The aim is to protect people quickly and provide the right support.
Supporting children and young people
Safeguarding children means:
- helping them as soon as problems start
- protecting them from harm
- supporting their health and development
- making sure they grow up in safe environments
Support is tailored to their needs and can include early help services.
Supporting adults at risk
Some adults may be more at risk of harm.
This can include people who:
- have care or support needs
- are unwell or vulnerable
- cannot protect themselves
Support focuses on listening to the person, respecting their choices and helping them stay safe.
Working together
Keeping people safe needs teamwork.
NHS Essex works with:
- social care services
- local councils
- the police
- community organisations
Working together helps provide better support and improve safety.
Respecting people’s rights
Safeguarding must respect people’s rights and choices.
This includes:
- involving people in decisions about their care
- asking for consent where possible
- sharing information safely and appropriately
Sometimes information may be shared without consent to prevent serious harm.
Roles and responsibilities
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
- All staff must know how to recognise and report concerns
- Managers must support staff and promote a safe culture
- Safeguarding teams provide expert advice and support
- Organisations must work together to protect people
This helps make sure concerns are acted on quickly and safely.
Policy review
This policy was approved on 1 April 2026 and is due for review in April 2028.
For full details, download the accessible Word version of the policy below.