Safeguarding Adults Procedures

19  the views and wishes of the adult,  the appearance and behaviour of the adult and/or the person making the disclosure,  any injuries observed,  any actions and decisions taken at this point,  any other relevant information, e.g. previous incidents that have caused you concern. Remember to:  Wherever possible and practicable seek the person’s consent to raise the concern. Where the person raises objections and there are significant risks, or if other adults or children could be at risk, it may be necessary to override their expressed wish not to consent.  include as much detail as possible,  make sure the written record is legible, written or printed in black ink, and is of a quality that can be photocopied,  make sure you have printed your name on the record and that it is signed and dated,  keep the record factual as far as possible. However, if it contains your opinion or an assessment, it should be clearly stated as such and be backed up by factual evidence. Information from another person should be clearly attributed to them.  keep the record/s confidential, storing them in a safe & secure place until needed. When a Crime is suspected If a crime is suspected it is critical that the Police are informed. Try not to disturb the scene as it may be important for the Police to collect forensic evidence. If in doubt ask the Police for advice. In cases where there may be physical evidence of crimes (e.g. physical or sexual assault), contact the Police immediately. Ask their advice about what to do to preserve evidence. See Appendix 8 Professionals must contact Dorset Police Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH). Contact Children’s Social Care if a child/children are also at risk. Whilst the above is necessary as an initial action, it is also vital to report the concern to the Safeguarding Adults contact point within the Council, details on page 5. Good practice guide – when a crime is suspected Raising concerns with the Police  Where possible leave things as and where they are. If anything has to be handled, keep this to an absolute minimum;  Do not clean up. Do not touch anything you do not have to. Do not throw anything away which could be evidence;  Do not wash anything or in any way remove fibres, blood etc.;  Preserve the clothing and footwear of the victim;  Preserve anything used to comfort or warm the victim, e.g. a blanket;  Note in writing the state of the clothing of both the victim and person alleged to have caused the harm. Note injuries in writing. As soon as possible, make full written notes on the conditions and attitudes of the people involved in the incident;  Take steps to secure the room or area where the incident took place. Do not allow anyone to enter until the Police arrive.  If you believe that evidence, such as patient notes will be destroyed or collected, advise the Police immediately. In addition, in cases of sexual assault:  Preserve bedding and clothing where appropriate, do not wash;  Try not to have any personal or physical contact with either the victim or the person alleged to have caused the harm. Offer reassurance and comfort as needed but be aware that anyone touching the victim or source of risk can cross contaminate evidence.