CQC Quality Statements
Theme 3 – How the local authority ensures safety in the system: Safe systems, pathways and transitions
We statement
We work with people and our partners to establish and maintain safe systems of care, in which safety is managed, monitored and assured. We ensure continuity of care, including when people move between services.
What people expect
When I move between services, settings or areas, there is a plan for what happens next and who will do what, and all the practical arrangements are in place.
I feel safe and supported to understand and manage any risks.
See Safeguarding Adults Procedures
TRAFFORD SPECIFIC INFORMATION
CONTENTS
1. Making a Safeguarding Referral to the Local Authority
When a person (either professional or a member of the public) has concerns that an adult is experiencing or at risk of abuse or neglect but there is no immediate risk of harm, they should make a referral to adult social care the next working day.
However, if the concerns are such that immediate action is required or there is an urgent risk, the local authority’s Out of Hours team (adults) should be contacted without delay. Where there are concerns that a crime may have been committed, the police should also be contacted.
Whenever a professional makes a referral, they should record all details on the adult’s case file / record.
2. Taking Immediate Action to Protect an Adult
If the Out of Hours team receive a safeguarding alert or referral which indicates an adult is experiencing or at risk of abuse or neglect, and there is an immediate or urgent risk, the worker who receives the alert or referral must take all steps necessary to protect the adult. This includes arranging emergency medical treatment, contacting the police (by telephoning 999) and taking any other action to ensure the adult is safe.
See also Safeguarding Adults Procedures.
3. Case Recording and Handover
Whether or not any immediate action is necessary, the Out of Hours team worker should record details of the concerns on the adult’s electronic social care record. The worker should pass all necessary information to the relevant team in adult social care before the end of their shift. If the adult already known to adult social care, the out of hours worker will notify their allocated worker.
See also Case Recording chapter.
