6.3 Describe the actions to take if suspected abuse or unsafe practices have been reported but nothing has been done in response

Qualification: Level 2 Diploma in Care, Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care
Unit name: Safeguarding and Protection in Care Settings
Learning outcome: 6. Know how to recognise and report unsafe practices
Assessment criteria: 6.3 Describe the actions to take if suspected abuse or unsafe practices have been reported but nothing has been done in response

If you have raised concerns about suspected abuse or unsafe practices and feel that nothing has been done in response, you should take steps to ensure that action is taken.

This may mean escalating your concerns to senior management or the registered manager or it could mean making a report to an external agency.

You should refer to your organisation’s whistleblowing policy for more information. Following the whistleblowing policy will protect you from any potential repercussions from your employer as a result of making a disclosure.

If your concern is related to the wellbeing of the individuals you support, you should report it to the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Their reporting systems do allow you to report concerns anonymously if you so wish.

Health and safety concerns that could affect the welfare of employees or visitors should be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

For more serious or urgent concerns, you may need to report to your local authority’s safeguarding adults team or even the police.