Safeguarding & Child and Adult Protection in the NHS

Course Overview

Safeguarding is a core responsibility for every healthcare professional working within the NHS. This module provides learners with the knowledge and confidence to recognise, respond to, and escalate safeguarding concerns involving both children and adults at risk. Participants will explore the legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities that underpin safeguarding practice in the UK, including the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Children Act, Domestic Abuse Act, and mandatory reporting requirements. The module examines the signs and indicators of abuse, neglect, exploitation, domestic abuse, modern slavery, self-neglect, and organisational abuse, while also developing an understanding of vulnerable groups and risk factors. Learners will gain practical guidance on responding to disclosures, making safeguarding referrals, documenting concerns accurately, balancing confidentiality with information sharing duties, and working effectively with safeguarding teams and external agencies. The course also explores person-centred safeguarding approaches, capacity considerations, and the importance of early escalation to protect vulnerable individuals from harm.