Pointers for Practice: Engaging the adult at risk on completion of the safeguarding process

The safeguarding process can be confusing and bewildering for practitioners never mind the adult at risk. In addition, information about the adult at risk’s abuse and neglect has been discussed in fora alongside details of their personal circumstances and desired outcomes. This can leave the adult at risk of feeling vulnerable and, despite confidentially requirements, that their experiences have become everybody’s business.

It is important to recognise and address any negative feelings and outcomes resulting from the process. If these feelings and concerns are not addressed the adult at risk may be reluctant to engage with services and/or report poor practice, abuse or neglect in the future.

It is important, therefore, that the adult at risk is provided with an opportunity to:

• have their views and feelings about this experience recognised;
• discuss their experience of the safeguarding process: what worked what concerned them;
• consider any outstanding issues or questions they may have about the process and outcome;
• express their views on any future support and how this is planned and shaped according to their needs, wishes and circumstances.