Safeguarding children, young people, and adults

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding is a term used to describe the function of protecting people’s health, wellbeing and right to live free from harm, abuse or neglect.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

The Council is committed to working in partnership with others to safeguard our community and have developed a Safeguarding Children, Young People and Adults at Risk Policy, which applies to all employees, elected members, volunteers and contractors regardless of their role or remit.

We will raise awareness of safeguarding issues to ensure that the needs and interests of children, young people and adults at risk are included within decision making processes and through service provision.

There is an expectation that all employees will work in partnership as they apply this policy to their work with children and adults who may be at risk of harm or in need of protection.

Our key role is to share information with and make referrals to the investigating authority which is Suffolk County Council.

How do I report a concern?

Anyone can refer a safeguarding concern. If you are worried that someone is at risk of abuse, neglect, or harm, please report it.

Suffolk County Council lead on safeguarding concerns involving children and adults. Their website has details on how to:

Report Abuse of an Adult

Reporting a Child at Risk of Harm, Abuse or Neglect

You can also contact Customer First on 0808 800 4005 (free from landlines and most mobiles)

If you are concerned about the child or adult’s immediate safety, contact the police on 999.

Further information can be found at: