Groups summary

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See group A in detail.

If you see something wrong, or you're worried about something, then you report it.

See group B in detail.

You have a bit more knowledge in terms of what to look out for and you're building relationships. You get a bit more insight into people's lives, but essentially if you're worried or concerned you report it. You may have a discussion with your line manager or designated safeguarding person or report directly to social services.

See group C in detail.

You have a role to play beyond reporting and escalating concerns. You are continually assessing how your agency can manage aspects on a preventative basis, is there additional support or services you or others could be providing? Or is this something that has to be elevated up to social services?

Group C practitioners are responding to the concern you're seeing. Deciding if you are able to respond to the safeguarding concern within your own agency or whether you do need that referral to social services.

Group C practitioners may be their agency or team’s designated safeguarding person, you may be supporting and advising others, and play an active part in responding to safeguarding concerns arising in your setting.

You need to understand the difference between safeguarding and child or adult protection.

You will also be around the table contributing to strategy meetings and be part of the multi-agency plan for that child or person.

See group D in detail.

This group is similar to group C, as it still an operational role, but it is a higher decision-making level. A lot of agencies wouldn't necessarily have input at this level, so we're talking mainly about statutory agencies at group D.

These are the people that make really complex decisions about what happens to an individual. Based on safeguarding concerns, do they need to be placed in a secure facility? Do we need to go to court to apply for some kind of order? Do they need a specific type of care and support package in relation to a placement or a setting?

These people would generally be decision makers within their respective organisations in relation to safeguarding.

See group E in detail.

This group is where those decisions are made that cannot be made at a lower level. For example, when the group D practitioners have to elevate it up to a higher level because it's so unusual, complex, difficult or costly in relation to safeguarding an individual or it involves a number of individuals.

This group is where those decisions are made that cannot be made at a lower level. For example, when the group D practitioners have to elevate it up to a higher level because it's so unusual, complex, difficult or costly in relation to safeguarding an individual or it involves a number of individuals.

Group E practitioners also provide strategic oversight for the safeguarding process and wider safeguarding matters in the organisation.

See group F in detail.

Executive and senior management level. Will listen to expert advice and use this to ensure that the organisation is complying with safeguarding requirements and can redirect resources if required.