Concerns, Care and Reporting

Use with Chapters 3, 7, 8 and 9.

This is a general guide, not a substitute for local safeguarding procedures or professional advice.

Choose the appropriate route

Ordinary disagreement: Clarify the facts and responsibilities. Arrange a suitable conversation, listen and record agreed next steps.
Concern about conduct or leadership: Use the agreed complaints or oversight route. Seek independent advice where there is a conflict of interest or fear of retaliation.
Safeguarding concern or immediate danger: Follow the safeguarding reporting process promptly. If someone is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services. Listen without investigating, explain confidentiality limits and keep a factual record in the designated secure system.
Ongoing distress or health concerns: Offer support within your role and help the person connect with suitable professional care. Persistent hopelessness, loss of interest or marked changes in sleep warrant attention. Immediate danger requires emergency help.

These UK sources inform the general guidance. Reporting arrangements and emergency numbers vary by country; use those for your location.