Carers
Circumstances in which an informal carer (for example, a family member or friend) could be involved in a situation that may require a safeguarding response includes when:
- A carer may witness of speak up about abuse or neglect
- A carer may experience intentional or unintentional harm from the adult they are trying to support or from professionals and organisations they are in contact with
- A carer may unintentionally or intentionally harm or neglect the adult they support on their own or with others.
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Assessment of both the carer and the adult they care for must include consideration of the wellbeing of both people. Sec 1 of the Care Act includes protection from abuse and neglect as part of the definition of wellbeing. As such, a carers assessment is an important opportunity to explore the carer’s circumstances and consider whether it would be possible to provide information, or support that prevents abuse or neglect from occurring. Where that is necessary the local authority should make arrangements for providing it.
If a carer speaks up about abuse or neglect, it is essential they are listened to and that where appropriate a safeguarding enquiry is undertaken and other agencies are involved as appropriate.