Safeguarding is everybody's business, and it is at the very heart of how we work. Nutshell Nursing Care is committed to protecting the safety, dignity and wellbeing of every adult in our care, and to acting promptly and openly whenever there is a concern.
In an emergency, always call 999. If you believe someone is in immediate danger or has been seriously harmed, contact the police on 999 straight away. For non-urgent concerns, use the contacts further down this page.
Our commitment
In line with the Care Act 2014 and the six safeguarding principles, empowerment, prevention, proportionality, protection, partnership and accountability, we will:
- Treat every person with dignity, respect and compassion.
- Ensure all staff are DBS-checked, trained in safeguarding, and know how to recognise and report concerns.
- Listen to the people we support and involve them in decisions about their own safety and care.
- Act quickly, openly and proportionately on any concern, and work in partnership with local authorities and other agencies.
- Maintain a designated safeguarding lead and clear internal reporting procedures.
What is adult safeguarding?
Safeguarding means protecting an adult's right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It applies to adults who have care and support needs and may be unable to protect themselves. Recognising the signs is the first step to keeping people safe.
Recognising abuse & neglect
Abuse can take many forms. The Care Act recognises these main categories:
| Type | Examples of signs |
|---|---|
| Physical | Unexplained injuries, bruising, or signs of restraint or over-medication. |
| Neglect & acts of omission | Untreated needs, poor hygiene, malnutrition, missed medication. |
| Emotional / psychological | Fear, withdrawal, anxiety, or a person being controlled or isolated. |
| Financial / material | Unexplained money loss, missing possessions, or pressure over finances. |
| Sexual | Any sexual activity without valid consent. |
| Discriminatory | Harassment or unequal treatment based on a protected characteristic. |
| Organisational | Poor care practice within a service or institution. |
| Domestic abuse | Controlling, coercive or violent behaviour from a partner or family member. |
| Modern slavery & self-neglect | Exploitation, or a person seriously neglecting their own care or surroundings. |
How to raise a concern
If you are worried that you, or an adult you know, is being abused, neglected or is at risk, please tell someone. You do not need to be certain, it is always better to share a concern.
- If there is immediate danger, call 999.
- Speak to our designated safeguarding lead using the contact details below, at any time of day or night.
- Contact the adult social care team at the relevant local council, who lead safeguarding enquiries.
- You can also contact the Care Quality Commission or the police non-emergency line on 101.
Whistleblowing & confidentiality. Our staff are trained and encouraged to report concerns without fear of reprisal. We treat every safeguarding concern seriously, sensitively and confidentially, sharing information only with those who need it to keep someone safe.
Useful contacts
- Emergency: 999 (police, ambulance) · Non-emergency police: 101
- Your local council adult social care team, search "[your council] safeguarding adults" or call your council's main number.
- Care Quality Commission (CQC): 03000 616161 · cqc.org.uk
- Action on Elder Abuse / Hourglass: 0808 808 8141
- NHS: 111 for urgent non-emergency health concerns.