At Camphill Village Trust, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. It means protecting people’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It’s a shared responsibility that everyone has a part to play in, whether you’re a staff member, a volunteer, a family member, or part of the community.
This page explains safeguarding and the key terms to help you understand what it means and why it’s important.
Understanding safeguarding
Safeguarding refers to the measures taken to protect children, young people, and adults at risk from harm. It’s about more than just preventing abuse or neglect; safeguarding ensures that individuals:
- Are treated with dignity and respect.
- Have their health and wellbeing supported.
- Are empowered to make their own choices and live as independently as possible.
In the context of Camphill Village Trust, safeguarding involves creating a safe, supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Some key terms
Vulnerable adult
This term historically referred to adults who may need extra support to live safely. While it’s no longer widely used, you might still encounter it in some documents or older materials.
Adults at risk of harm
The term “Adults at Risk” is now preferred to describe individuals aged 18 or over who:
- Have care and support needs.
- May be unable to protect themselves from harm or exploitation due to their circumstances.
- Could be at greater risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Examples include adults with learning disabilities, mental health problems, or physical disabilities, as well as those who are elderly or experiencing temporary difficulties like a crisis.
Safeguarding adults
Safeguarding Adults is a structured process focused on protecting adults at risk of harm. It involves:
- Identifying when someone may be at risk.
- Taking action to prevent harm or reduce the risk.
- Reporting concerns to the appropriate authorities.
It’s a proactive approach designed to ensure individuals are supported, protected, and empowered to live fulfilling lives.
Safeguarding ensures that everyone can feel safe, valued, and supported. By understanding its principles and taking action when needed, we can all contribute to creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone at Camphill Village Trust.
