Multi-Agency Safeguarding in NHS Integrated Care Systems
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Safeguarding within NHS Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) is inherently multi-agency. Risks often sit across organisational boundaries, requiring coordinated responses between NHS providers, local authorities, police and third-sector partners.
Commissioners expect providers to understand their role within this wider safeguarding system and contribute proactively.
This aligns closely with multi-agency working and regulatory alignment.
Why multi-agency safeguarding matters
No single organisation holds the full picture of risk. Effective safeguarding relies on:
- Information sharing
- Clear roles and responsibilities
- Timely joint decision-making
Breakdowns often lead to serious harm.
Understanding roles within the system
NHS providers must understand:
- The role of safeguarding adults boards
- Local authority statutory duties
- Police thresholds and responses
This clarity prevents duplication and delay.
Information sharing in practice
Commissioners expect providers to:
- Share relevant safeguarding information promptly
- Follow agreed protocols
- Balance confidentiality with safety
Over-cautious information withholding is a common failure point.
Joint risk assessment and planning
Strong multi-agency safeguarding includes:
- Joint risk assessments
- Co-produced protection plans
- Clear lead responsibilities
This supports coordinated responses.
Escalation and challenge
Providers must be confident to:
- Escalate concerns when responses are insufficient
- Challenge decisions respectfully
- Use formal escalation routes where needed
This protects individuals and services.
Learning across organisations
When safeguarding failures occur, commissioners expect:
- Shared learning reviews
- Cross-organisational action plans
- Evidence of improvement
Learning should not remain siloed.
What good multi-agency practice looks like
Commissioners are reassured when providers:
- Engage actively in safeguarding forums
- Demonstrate system awareness
- Contribute to collective improvement
This strengthens ICS-level safeguarding resilience.
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