Enquiries

All enquiries into the alleged abuse and/or neglect of adults need to be planned. No person or agency should take enquiry action in respect of adult alleged abuse prior to a planning discussion unless it is necessary and proportionate for the immediate protection of the adult or the protection of others. In protection adults at risk of abuse or neglect, it may be helpful to identify the PATCH (Person(s) Alleged to Harm Caused Harm). Where a crime has not been committed, then an educational approach should be taken to help the PATCH understand and support their learning. Arrangements should be put in place to support the PATCH; this should be done at the enquiry stage.

Our new procedures signal an enquiries-based approach to adult safeguarding. Any enquiry will be founded upon the six principles of Empowerment, Prevention, Proportionality, Protection, Partnership, and Accountability.

The subject of enquiries is covered in greater detail in the Adult Safeguarding Procedures.