Policies & Information
Safeguarding
How On Hand responds to concerns about abuse, neglect, exploitation and serious wellbeing risks.
Our approach
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. On Hand takes concerns seriously, keeps the adult at the centre of decisions wherever possible and does not investigate suspected abuse itself.
What a concern may involve
This can include physical, sexual, psychological or domestic abuse; financial or material abuse; neglect; self-neglect; discrimination; organisational abuse; modern slavery; unexplained injuries; fear or coercion; sudden financial changes; unsafe living conditions; or a significant change in wellbeing.
Immediate danger
Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger or a crime is in progress. No one should be placed at further risk.
Reporting an adult safeguarding concern in Dorset
For an adult in the Dorset Council area, call Adult Safeguarding on 01305 221016 during office hours or 01305 221000 outside those hours. On Hand will record when the concern was raised, who was contacted and the factual information shared.
Customer involvement and information sharing
Where it is safe and appropriate, the concern will be explained to the customer and their views sought. Consent matters, but information may be shared without consent where there is immediate danger, a risk to another person, suspected serious crime, a legal duty or another lawful safeguarding reason.
Recording and boundaries
On Hand records facts rather than assumptions, including what was seen or heard, relevant dates and times, immediate action, advice received and any referral made. Records are kept securely. On Hand will not confront an alleged abuser, carry out its own safeguarding investigation, promise absolute confidentiality or take control of a customer’s finances or care decisions.