Safeguarding Adults and Children

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Safeguarding means protecting individuals’ right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It includes:

Preventing harm or abuse from occurring
Promoting well-being
Acting quickly and appropriately when concerns arise

Who Might Be at Risk?

Children and young people under 18
Adults who may be vulnerable due to age, disability, illness, mental health conditions, or other circumstances

Types of Abuse to Be Aware Of:

Physical abuse
Emotional/psychological abuse
Sexual abuse
Neglect
Financial or material abuse
Domestic abuse
Discriminatory abuse
Modern slavery
Self-neglect

What to Do if You Have a Concern

If you are worried that someone is being abused or is at risk of harm, do not delay. You do not need to have all the facts – just a genuine concern.

How to Refer to Social Services

If you’re a member of the public or need to make a direct referral, you can use the following links:

For Adults at Risk:

Are you concerned about a vulnerable adult? – Lancashire County Council

For Children’s Concerns:

Safeguarding children – Lancashire County Council

🧭 Useful/Helpful Contact Numbers

Service	Office Hours	Out-of-Hours / Emergency
Children’s Social Services	0300 123 6720 (8 am–8 pm)	0300 123 6722
Adult Safeguarding	0300 123 6721 (8 am–8 pm)	0300 123 6722
Emergency (Police/Ambulance)	999 (if immediate)	999

If an adult or child is in immediate danger, always call 999 first

You can also seek advice from:

NSPCC (for children): 0808 800 5000
Action on Elder Abuse (for adults): 0808 808 8141

Making a Referral: What You’ll Need

When referring, try to provide:

Your name and contact details (you can remain anonymous)
The name, age, and address of the person at risk (if known)
What you’ve seen or heard that causes concern
Any immediate actions you’ve taken

Confidentiality and Support

All concerns are treated sensitively and shared only with those who need to know to protect the individual at risk.