Balancing Safeguarding Duties with Least Restrictive Practice
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Safeguarding duties are central to adult social care, yet they can unintentionally lead to overly restrictive practice when risk is managed defensively rather than proportionately. The challenge for providers is balancing statutory safeguarding responsibilities with people’s rights, autonomy and independence.
This article links closely to practice explored within Safeguarding and Positive Risk-Taking & Risk Enablement.
Why Over-Restriction Happens
Over-restriction often occurs when safeguarding is treated as risk elimination rather than risk management. Staff may feel pressure to avoid scrutiny, leading to blanket controls that limit independence.
Operational Example: Managing Financial Safeguarding Concerns
A provider supporting adults with learning disabilities identified repeated restrictions around financial independence following safeguarding alerts. Rather than removing access entirely, the provider introduced graded safeguards such as spending plans and supported budgeting.
This approach protected individuals while maintaining choice and control.
Proportionate Safeguarding Responses
Effective safeguarding responses should:
- Be evidence-led and time-bound
- Focus on prevention rather than restriction
- Include the person in decision-making
Operational Example: Safeguarding Reviews with Enablement Focus
Safeguarding reviews were redesigned to include explicit discussion on reducing restrictions. Each review required clear justification for continued controls and a plan to restore independence where possible.
Commissioner and Inspector Expectations
Commissioners expect safeguarding actions to be proportionate and person-centred. Inspectors look for evidence that safeguarding does not override autonomy without clear, documented rationale.
Embedding Balanced Practice
Balancing safeguarding and least restrictive practice requires confident leadership, clear policies and ongoing staff support to ensure protection and empowerment coexist.
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