Safeguarding: Information for Cyngor Gwynedd staff
See something - say something
Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults is the responsibility of everyone who works for, or represents, Cyngor Gwynedd.
This means that all members of staff should take appropriate action if they see something that makes them think that someone (an adult or a child) is at risk.
This is true for everyone who works in all services or departments – not just school staff or social services.
What to do if you think someone is at risk
In an emergency / if someone is in imminent danger – call 999 and ask for the Police.
If you're worried about someone / have seen something but it is not an emergency:
contact Gwynedd Social Services on 01766 772577 (or 01248 353551 if the office is closed);·
or, talk to the Designated Officer for your department;
Safeguarding is about protecting the health, well-being and human rights of people and children, and making sure they can live without being harmed, abused or neglected.
Children
Vulnerable adults (adults who need care or support in their day-to-day lives)
Abuse means causing harm or pain to another person. It can affect persons of all ages or backgrounds.
Abuse can include:
Physical / sexual abuse
Emotional abuse
Financial abuse
Neglect – such as preventing someone from having food or medicine
Depriving someone of their rights – for example forcing someone to work without pay
Radicalisation.
Safeguarding affects all members of staff at Cyngor Gwynedd.
Everyone is expected to complete the mandatory Safeguarding training. If you have not done the training, talk to your line manager / team leader to arrange this.
There is a Designated Officer to deal with and advise on safeguarding issues in each department. Make sure you know who your Designated Officer is by asking your Line Manager or Team Leader.
Regardless of your job, everyone should be aware of the signs of abuse or neglect and be prepared to talk openly about this. This is not just a matter for social services and schools.
If you see something or are worried about a situation, you should report it immediately and not try to investigate or intervene yourself.
If you see something, make a note of what you have seen when it is safe for you to do so.
If you suspect something is not right, please report it. You will not be criticised for raising a concern.
If you have any questions or concerns about your responsibility or what is expected of you as a member of staff, speak to your Line Manager or Team Leader.
