What should you do if you have concerns or suspicions about the welfare of a child or adult?
You may have concerns about the welfare of a child or adult, or suspicions about the behaviour of an adult.
In an emergency, call emergency services. Full details listed in the ‘Contact and Finding Support’ section.
Otherwise, consult the person to whom you are responsible to. Decide together whether to seek advice or make an immediate referral to the police or children/adult services.
Also, Always contact the Diocesan Safeguarding Adviser and notify them.
Keep a record of what happened, your concerns and your actions.
Only share with others who need to know.
Advise the diocese on all safeguarding matters when there are concerns about harm to children or adults who may be vulnerable, or when allegations or observations of abuse have been made.
Confidential information can be shared if –
You have consent from the person
Or
You can share information without consent if –
a child or adult is at risk of significant harm
prevention, detection or prosecution of a serious crime is prejudiced
withholding information would lead to an unjustified delay in making enquiries about allegations of significant harm.
Extended confidentiality – for example, you ask the person if you can speak to the DSA, as uncertain if this is something that should be passed on.
