Everyone in our community has a role in safeguarding adults and children, and as a Parish Clerk, you may need to ensure concerns are reported promptly and appropriately
If you or the person you are concerned about is in danger and immediate action is needed, call the emergency services on 999.
If you or someone you know is at risk of abuse or neglect, you can contact us to speak to a specialist advisor. If you contact us out of hours, our Emergency Duty team will be available to take your call. Click the buttons below to report a safeguarding concern to us.
What is Safeguarding?
Safeguarding means protecting a person’s right to live in safety, free from harm, abuse, or neglect. It includes:
- Identifying when someone may be at risk
- Taking concerns seriously
- Reporting issues promptly to the appropriate authority
- Supporting safe, inclusive, and respectful communities
Safeguarding applies to everyone, but some people may be more at risk due to age, disability, illness, or their personal circumstances.
You do not need to be certain something is wrong — safeguarding is about noticing concerns early and sharing them with professionals who can help.
Abuse can take many forms. It may be a single incident or ongoing behaviour. It can happen anywhere — including within families, communities, or online. Common types of abuse include:
- Physical abuse – causing physical harm
- Emotional or psychological abuse – threats, humiliation, controlling behaviour
- Sexual abuse or exploitation
- Financial abuse – theft, fraud, misuse of money or property
- Neglect or self‑neglect
- Domestic abuse
- Modern slavery or trafficking
- Online abuse or exploitation
Abuse can be carried out by anyone: family members, carers, neighbours, professionals, or strangers.
If something feels worrying or out of place, it is always better to report it.
For more information, visit the links below.