Older Adults Safeguarding Policy

Purpose of this Policy

This policy outlines how safeguarding concerns involving older adults will be recognised, responded to, and reported. Its aim is to promote safety, dignity, and wellbeing, and to ensure that any concerns about abuse, neglect, or exploitation are acted on promptly and appropriately.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all professional activities carried out by the Occupational Therapist, including home visits, assessments, interventions, communication with clients and families, and liaison with other professionals.

3. Commitment to Safeguarding

I am committed to:

  • Protecting older adults from abuse, neglect, and harm

  • Promoting independence, dignity, and choice

  • Acting promptly on any safeguarding concerns

  • Working in line with the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, and local safeguarding procedures

  • Sharing information appropriately and proportionately

4. Definitions of Abuse and Neglect

Abuse may be:

  • Physical – hitting, rough handling, inappropriate restraint

  • Emotional/Psychological – intimidation, threats, humiliation

  • Financial – theft, fraud, misuse of money or property

  • Neglect – failure to meet basic needs, ignoring medical or care needs

  • Sexual – unwanted sexual contact or behaviour

  • Domestic abuse – controlling or coercive behaviour within relationships

  • Self‑neglect – inability or unwillingness to care for oneself

  • Organisational abuse – poor practice within care settings

5. Recognising Signs of Abuse

Possible indicators include:

  • Unexplained injuries or frequent falls

  • Withdrawal, fearfulness, or changes in behaviour

  • Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or unsafe living conditions

  • Missing money, unpaid bills, or sudden financial changes

  • Carers speaking for the person or restricting access

  • Concerns raised by neighbours, family, or other professionals

6. Mental Capacity

All decisions will be made in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005, including:

  • Presuming capacity unless proven otherwise

  • Supporting individuals to make their own decisions

  • Acting in the person’s best interests if they lack capacity

  • Choosing the least restrictive option

7. Responding to a Safeguarding Concern

If I become aware of a safeguarding concern, I will:

  1. Ensure immediate safety of the individual if required

  2. Listen carefully and avoid making assumptions

  3. Record the concern factually and promptly

  4. Report the concern to the appropriate authority

  5. Seek consent to share information where appropriate, unless doing so increases risk

  6. Follow Sheffield City Council Adult Safeguarding procedures

8. Reporting Procedures

Concerns will be reported to:

  • Sheffield Adult Safeguarding Partnership

  • Emergency services if there is immediate danger

  • GP or other involved professionals where appropriate

If the concern involves criminal activity, the police will be contacted.

9. Information Sharing

Information will be shared:

  • On a need‑to‑know basis

  • In line with GDPR and professional standards

  • With consent where possible

  • Without consent if there is risk of harm, abuse, or neglect

10. Record Keeping

I will keep clear, factual, and secure records of:

  • What was observed or disclosed

  • Actions taken

  • Who was contacted and when

  • Any follow‑up required

Records will be stored securely and retained in line with professional and legal requirements.

11. Professional Responsibilities

As a registered Occupational Therapist, I will:

  • Maintain up‑to‑date safeguarding training

  • Reflect safeguarding responsibilities in my practice

  • Seek supervision or advice when needed

  • Work collaboratively with local safeguarding partners

12. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if:

  • Legislation changes

  • Local safeguarding procedures are updated

  • Practice needs evolve

Policy date: January 2026

Next review: January 2027