Safeguarding

Safeguarding is a term used in the United Kingdom, Ireland[1] and Australia[2] to denote measures to protect the health, well-being and human rights of individuals, which allow people—especially children, young people and vulnerable adults—to live free from abuse, harm and neglect.

Professional carers ideally focus on empowerment, protection, prevention, proportionate responses, partnership and accountability to safeguard vulnerable adults.

"[8] This shift from traditional child protection to a more all-encompassing approach was influenced by the first Joint Chief Inspectors' safeguarding children report (2002) and the Victoria Climbié Inquiry (2003).

In addition, they are responsible for commissioning independent Serious Case Reviews and training member agency staff in safeguarding children best practice.

[18] The Care Act sets out a legal framework for how local authorities and other organisations should react to suspicion of abuse or neglect.

The core of safer recruitment lies in adopting a comprehensive and vigilant approach to the hiring process, from the initial job advertisement to the final selection and ongoing monitoring of staff.

Implementing safer recruitment practices faces several challenges, including the variability of regulations and standards across different jurisdictions, the complexity of conducting thorough background checks in a globalized context, and the evolving nature of online risks.

Despite the challenges, the evolving nature of safer recruitment practices reflects a global commitment to protecting children and ensuring they receive their education in a safe and nurturing environment.