Tackling safeguarding on our schemes to support tenants | Tenant news

We all have the right to live without fear, abuse, or neglect, and whether in our homes, at work, or in our communities, we should feel safe and supported.

Sadly, abuse can happen anywhere and to anyone, but it’s important to remember that help is always available.

What is safeguarding?

Safeguarding is about protecting vulnerable people from harm.

Adult safeguarding means protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from harm, abuse and neglect.

For children and young people, it’s about protecting them from maltreatment and helping them grow up in a healthy, supportive environment.

It’s important to recognise the signs of abuse early and take action to prevent further harm.

Abuse can happen anywhere, including in a tenant’s own home, someone else’s home, on the street, or even in places where people should feel safe, like schools or workplaces.

Anyone can be an abuser, including:

• Spouses and partners
• Other family members
• Neighbours
• Friends and acquaintances
• Local residents
• Paid staff and professionals.

Responding to concerns

At Habinteg, safeguarding concerns are always taken seriously, and we act quickly to make sure people get the help they need.

If you raise a concern, we will listen, respect your confidentiality where possible, and work with the right authorities to protect everyone involved.

We’ll treat any concerns with care, but sometimes we may need to share details with local authorities or other services if further action is needed.

Finding support

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse and is in immediate danger, always call 999.

If you're concerned that a child or adult may be experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect (but not in immediate danger), you can:

• Contact the police on the non-emergency line by dialling 101.
• Contact your Local Authority’s Adult or Children’s Social Care for advice. Find contact details on your local authority's website.
• Get in touch with our Customer Service Team, Habinteg Direct at direct@habinteg.org.uk or call 0300 365 3100.

For more information on organisations that offer support, visit www.habinteg.org.uk/safeguarding.

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