Safeguarding Policy

1. Our Commitment

At Ashdown Care, safeguarding is at the core of everything we do. We are fully committed to protecting the health, wellbeing, and human rights of all individuals we support, enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect.

We firmly believe that everyone has the right to live in safety, with dignity and respect. Our safeguarding practices align with the Care Act 2014, the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and the strict guidelines set by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

2. Recognizing Abuse

Abuse can take many forms. Our staff are comprehensively trained to recognize the signs of abuse, which may include:

• Physical abuse
• Domestic violence or abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Psychological or emotional abuse
• Financial or material abuse
• Modern slavery
• Discriminatory abuse
• Organizational or institutional abuse
• Neglect or acts of omission
• Self-neglect

3. Staff Training and Vetting

All Ashdown Care employees undergo rigorous pre-employment checks, including enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and thorough reference verifications. Safeguarding training is mandatory during induction and is refreshed annually for all team members.

4. Reporting and Whistleblowing

We maintain a transparent culture where staff, clients, and families are actively encouraged to raise concerns without fear of reprisal. We have a robust Whistleblowing Policy in place.

If our staff suspect abuse or neglect, they are required by our internal policies to report it immediately to the Registered Manager, who will then coordinate with the local authority safeguarding team and the CQC as required by law.

5. Working Together

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. We work in close partnership with East Sussex County Council, local healthcare professionals, social workers, and the police to ensure a coordinated response to any safeguarding concerns.

6. How to Raise a Concern

If you have any concerns about the safety or wellbeing of someone receiving care from Ashdown Care, please contact us immediately:

• Phone: 01892 653326
• Email: info@ashdowncare.co.uk

Alternatively, you can report safeguarding concerns directly to the East Sussex County Council Adult Social Care team or the Care Quality Commission (CQC). In an emergency, always dial 999.