To whom should a safeguarding concern be raised?

Raising a safeguarding concern to a senior professional colleague is critical because they typically possess the experience and authority to address such issues effectively. Senior professional colleagues have a broader understanding of the safeguarding protocols and procedures in place within the organization. This knowledge allows them to handle the situation appropriately, ensuring that necessary actions are taken to protect individuals at risk, while also maintaining confidentiality and adhering to legal and ethical guidelines.

A senior colleague can also escalate the matter further if needed, coordinating with other professionals or authorities who can provide additional support or intervention. This hierarchical approach is crucial in safeguarding scenarios, as it ensures that the matter is taken seriously and is handled by someone equipped to deal with potential complexities involved in safeguarding cases.

In contrast, other options such as a school counselor, patient’s family, or co-worker may not have the appropriate authority or training to manage safeguarding concerns adequately. While they can play supportive roles in certain situations, the first point of escalation for a safeguarding concern should be a senior professional who can ensure proper procedures are followed.