20 Making a Written Record As soon as possible on the same day, the referrer of the safeguarding concern should make a chronological written record of what you have seen, been told or have concerns about. Try to make sure anyone else who saw or heard anything relating to the concern also makes a written record. The written record will need to include: the date and time of the disclosure, or when you were told about or witnessed the incident/s, who was involved, any other witnesses’ details, exactly what happened or what you were told, in the adult’s own words, keeping it factual and not interpreting what you saw or were told, 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, i.e. management of immediate risks any other relevant information, e.g. previous incidents that have caused you concern. Remember to: Wherever possible and practicable seek the adult’s consent to raise the concern. Where the adult 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 or observations. 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 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 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. Dorset Police is resolute in its commitment to tackling all forms of crime against adults at risk. Every member of the community deserves protection from exploitation and harm by those entrusted with their care and the people they should be able to rely on to keep them safe. People raising a concern must make it clear whether they are reporting a crime or suspected crime or seeking advice. Discuss with the relevant authority’s Adult Social Care safeguarding service who will advise. In an emergency call the Police on 999.
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