Safeguarding

We recognise that all children, young people and adults at risk have a right to protection from abuse and neglect and we accept our responsibility to safeguard the welfare of such persons with whom staff may come into contact.  

We aim to respond quickly and appropriately when information requests are made, abuse is suspected, or allegations are made in relation to children, young people or adults at risk.  Furthermore, we will give children, young people, their parents and adults at risk the chance to raise concerns over their own care or the care of others and have in place a system for managing, escalating and reviewing concerns.

Safeguarding means enabling people to live their lives free from harm, abuse and neglect and to have their health, wellbeing and human rights protected.  

In relation to children under the age of 16, this term should not be confused with the role of  ‘safeguarder’ under the children’s hearing system who is a person with specific duties and responsibilities appointed by Scottish ministers.

The practice supports safeguarding principles by ensuring that: 

• Clear lines of accountability exist within the practice for safeguarding
• All staff are aware of the safe whistleblowing process
• All staff understand the requirement to work in an open and transparent way
• All patients are treated with dignity and respect regardless of culture, disability, gender, age, language, racial origin, religion or sexuality
• All staff adhere to the guidance in this document and given in the referenced texts
• All staff effectively interact with the relevant agencies, sharing information appropriately
• All staff who work with children, young people and adults at risk are responsible for their own actions and behaviour and should avoid conduct that may lead another responsible person to question their motivation and/or intentions

If you are concerned about the welfare of anyone, further information can be found here:

Adults: Safeguarding Matters - Vulnerable Adults

Children: NSPCC