Our practice is committed to keeping children, young people, and adults at risk safe from harm. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we work closely with NHS services and partner organisations to protect those who may be vulnerable.

Safeguarding means taking steps to protect people from abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and to promote their health, wellbeing, and safety. This includes physical, emotional, sexual, and financial harm, as well as neglect.

Children and Young People

We have a duty to safeguard the welfare of children and young people. If we are concerned that a child may be at risk of harm, we will take appropriate action to ensure they are safe. This may involve sharing information with other professionals or services who are involved in supporting the child or family.

Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of the child.

Adults at Risk

Some adults may need additional support to keep themselves safe. This may be due to illness, disability, age, mental health difficulties, or social circumstances.

If we are concerned that an adult may be at risk of harm, abuse, or neglect, we may need to share relevant information with other services to help protect them. Wherever possible, we will involve the individual in decisions about their care and support.

Information Sharing and Confidentiality

We respect patient confidentiality at all times. However, in safeguarding situations, information may need to be shared without consent where this is necessary to protect a child or adult from serious harm or where required by law. Any information sharing is done carefully, proportionately, and in line with NHS Scotland guidance.

Getting Help or Raising a Concern

If you are worried about your own safety, or the safety of a child or adult, please speak to a member of the practice team. You can also seek advice and support from NHS Inform or local support services.

If someone is in immediate danger, please contact the emergency services by calling 999.