Think Family approach
Case study
By merging our safeguarding teams, we have been able to use a truly integrated Think Family approach.
We look at the whole family across all our services. We know that concerns affecting one family member can impact other people in their family. This coordinated approach can help us to act at the earliest opportunity.
The safeguarding duty service allows staff across the Trust to access safeguarding advice. This includes joint adult and children's safeguarding advice. It is particularly helpful when concerns involve both adults and children.
This creates a more coordinated risk assessment. Ensuring that we take the appropriate action at the earliest opportunity.
Example 1: Integrated contraceptive and sexual health services (iCaSH)
One of our iCaSH practitioners contacted the safeguarding duty service. They had concerns about domestic abuse within a household where children were present.
Our safeguarding team explored the case through a joint consultation. The consultation involved both adult and children's safeguarding specialists. A comprehensive assessment of the situation using expertise from across the safeguarding team.
As a result, a safeguarding referral to help protect the adult and children involved.
Example 2: Tuberculosis visit
A nurse visited a patient about tuberculosis (TB) concerns. During the visit the nurse identified potential safeguarding issues within the home. They observed a pregnant woman at the property. There was also evidence suggesting that children were also living there.
During a joint adult and children's safeguarding supervision session, the concerns were discussed. This enabled the nurse to use the specialist expertise from both disciplines.
The nurse and the adult safeguarding lead arranged a visit. This was to gain a better understanding of the family's situation and any potential risks.
The family later shared information with a health visitor about the safeguarding concerns and TB risks.
As a result, the health visitor worked closely with relevant safeguarding partners. They ensured the family would get the appropriate support and protection.
These examples highlights the benefits of integrating our safeguarding models:
- strengthening information sharing
- improving coordination between services
- enabling a more holistic response to the needs of children, adults and families
By working together we can identify risks early, respond effectively and help keep vulnerable people safe.
