Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Training resources available for primary care clinicians to enhance their understanding of safeguarding adults include:
- Face-to-face learning: Induction, training, and assessment sessions led by in-house experts, managers, or external trainers, which may be conducted in person or via video/telephone conferencing. These sessions allow clinicians to ask questions, discuss cases, and reflect on practice, tailored to their specific roles and the personalised care needs of adults at risk NICE NG189.
- Mandatory safeguarding training: Clinicians should complete mandatory safeguarding training as soon as possible, ideally within six weeks of starting their role, covering the identification and management of safeguarding concerns NICE NG189.
- Multi-agency training: Training that involves collaboration with local authorities, health and social care services, police, education, advocacy services, and voluntary groups to foster coordinated safeguarding responses NICE NG189.
- Reflective practice and supervision: Opportunities for clinicians to reflect on their safeguarding decisions and emotional responses, supporting continuous learning and understanding of personal values influencing safeguarding actions NICE NG189.
- Safeguarding champions: Access to staff with advanced safeguarding knowledge who provide practical and emotional support, ensuring procedures are followed and promoting best practice learning NICE NG189.
- Specialist domestic abuse training: For primary care, programmes like IRIS (Identification and Referral to Improve Safety) provide in-house domestic abuse training, support, and referral pathways, embedding domestic abuse specialists within practices NICE CKS.
- Resources from national organisations: Websites such as SafeLives offer tools and information for healthcare professionals on risk assessment and multi-agency working related to safeguarding adults, including domestic abuse NICE CKS.