Accountability in adult safeguarding is one of six main principles that we use to help protect vulnerable adults. Shane Dennett, a District Service Manager, explains to us why accountability is important and how it helps. Thanks, Shane!
Accounting for accountability
In the context of adult safeguarding, accountability refers to a system of checks, rules, and procedures. These ensure individuals and organisations are held responsible for their actions (or inaction) when it comes to protecting vulnerable adults. These standards are a key part of safeguarding frameworks. They aim to make sure that organizations, professionals, and individuals take their responsibilities seriously to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Here are some examples of how accountability typically works in our charity’s learning disabilities services.
Clear roles and responsibilities
Everyone, from our CEO to our volunteers, is clear on their responsibilities to protect adults at risk. We achieve this by providing extensive eLearning and face-to-face safeguarding training to all our teams. They need knowledge and understanding to identify signs of abuse and follow the correct procedures when it’s suspected.
Compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks
Laws and regulations, such as the Care Act 2014 or other adult protection legislation, provides a framework for safeguarding. All our Learning Disabilities services adhere to these regulations and legislation to ensure people’s safety.
My team managers, support staff, and I work with the Safeguarding Adults Boards (SABs) in the local authorities we partner with. This collaboration ensures multi-agency cooperation and regular oversight of safeguarding practices.
Monitoring and oversight
My team managers and I closely monitor all accidents and incidents. Each quarter, our governance team collates all data to inform our continuous improvement plan. This shapes how we manage our services. It includes reviewing care plans, safeguarding incidents, and the outcomes of safeguarding investigations.
The YOU Trust Learning Disabilities service is registered with the CQC, which ensures that proper standards of care and safeguarding are maintained. We regularly communicate with the CQC, sharing both successes and areas needing improvement.
Transparency and reporting
It’s important for everyone within my services to be open and honest. We have established channels for reporting concerns about abuse or neglect for staff, individuals, families, professionals, and members of the public.
My teams and I are always accountable when things go wrong. We learn from all our experiences so we can provide individuals with safe environments to thrive.
