Provide a consistent framework to support effective safeguarding adults practice across Berkshire. Developed collaboratively by partner agencies and overseen by the Pan Berkshire Safeguarding Adults Policy and Procedures Subgroup, these resources help professionals work together to safeguard adults with care and support needs.
The information is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in legislation, national guidance, local learning, and emerging best practice. They are used by Safeguarding Adults Boards and partner organisations across Berkshire to promote a coordinated and person-centred approach to safeguarding.
What is the difference between Policy, Procedure and Guidance?
- Policy, sets out the overarching principles, values and framework for safeguarding adults. Policies explain why we do what we do and provide the basis for multi-agency decision-making.
- Procedure, describes the processes and steps that agencies should follow when responding to safeguarding concerns. Procedures explain how safeguarding activity should be carried out.
- Guidance, provides practical advice, tools and examples to support professionals in applying policies and procedures in day-to-day practice.
Why are these resources important?
The Pan Berkshire Policies, Procedures and Guidance help to:
- Promote a consistent multi-agency approach across Berkshire.
- Support compliance with the Care Act 2014 and associated statutory guidance.
- Clarify roles, responsibilities and expectations for partner agencies.
- Strengthen information sharing and partnership working.
- Support good practice and continuous learning from Safeguarding Adult Reviews (SARs), local reviews and national developments.
Who should use them?
These resources apply to:
- Local authorities
- NHS organisations and health providers
- Police, fire and ambulance services
- Care providers
- Voluntary, community and faith sector organisations
- Any professional or volunteer with responsibilities for safeguarding adults with care and support needs
They should be used alongside individual organisations' own safeguarding policies, procedures and governance arrangements. The Pan Berkshire framework supports how agencies work together and does not replace local organisational requirements.
Keeping Up to Date
The Policies, Procedures and Guidance are living documents and may be updated periodically to reflect changes in legislation, safeguarding practice, local learning and national developments. Users should ensure they are accessing the latest versions available on this website and remove any superseded local copies where appropriate