Safeguarding is relevant to all of nursing

practice, in all settings, whether with children

or adults.
Effective safeguarding is underpinned by two key principles:

 safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility; for services to be

effective each professional and organisation should play their full
part
 professionals and organisations must work in partnership to protect
children and adults in need.
These two key safeguarding principles are underpinned by the
RCN’s Principles of Nursing Practice.
These eight principles encourage a proactive and empowering stance
that is desirable in the prevention of safeguarding issues.

As a nurse, midwife, health visitor or HCA you are responsible for

safeguarding those in your care and you must respond to any
safeguarding concerns.

Here are the key stages to follow:

 Identify safeguarding concerns.
 Report the concerns – for most nurses, midwives, health visitors
and HCAs this will be in conjunction with partner agencies and you
should use organisational and local policies.
 Participate in enquiries, debriefing and (where appropriate) in
developing a protection plan.
 Reflect on the outcomes and learning.
You will need to check the relevant statutory guidance and legislation
for the country where you work.

The role of the designated nurse for safeguarding

children and young people in England
The Royal College of Nursing has published this position statement
which clarifies the role and responsibilities of the Designated Nurse for
Safeguarding Children. The need for clarification is essential given the
significant loss of expertise nationally and the subsequent challenge to
effective succession planning. The role provides safeguarding, child
protection expertise and leadership throughout health and multiagency
partnerships. The role is distinct and should not be combined with
other designated nurse roles or functions, for example vulnerable
adults.