HSE South West promotes safety on Adult Safeguarding Day
HSE South West is urging everyone to recognise the importance of protecting adults from harm on 6 November. The initiative stresses every adult's right to live free from abuse while preserving dignity and independence across all settings.
Emphasising the right to safety
This year’s theme, ‘It is Everybody's Right to be Safe from Harm,’ underscores the fundamental right of all adults to live without fear of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or any form of harm, while maintaining their dignity, independence, and freedom of choice.
Abuse can manifest in various forms, including physical, psychological, sexual, financial abuse, or neglect, and may occur in any environment.
Kevin Collins, Principal Social Worker with the Adult Safeguarding and Protection Team at HSE South West, stated:
"Every adult deserves to feel safe, valued, and protected, especially those more vulnerable to abuse or neglect. Safeguarding honours people’s rights by listening to their wishes and supporting them to live with dignity, independence, and choice. The individual must always be central to safeguarding efforts, with their rights, wishes, and unique circumstances guiding all responses. It’s about empowering individuals to have a voice, make decisions, and maintain control of their lives while being treated with respect and compassion. Safeguarding should enhance independence, not diminish it. Adult Safeguarding Day is a vital reminder that support is accessible whenever concerns arise."