Why Multi-Agency Safeguarding Fails Without Accountability
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Multi-agency working is only effective when roles are clear and action is taken. Without accountability, even the best intentions can fall through the cracks — and in safeguarding, that can have devastating consequences.
🧭 Who’s Responsible for What?
Commissioners want to know that your service:
- Has a designated safeguarding lead with inter-agency responsibilities
- Clearly defines what is escalated externally and what is managed internally
- Ensures staff understand local safeguarding thresholds and reporting duties
📝 Follow-Up Is Non-Negotiable
Inadequate follow-up is one of the biggest risks in multi-agency safeguarding. You should be able to demonstrate how your service:
- Checks that referrals have been received and acted on
- Documents all communications with external agencies
- Escalates concerns when there's no response or action
🔍 What to Include in Tender Responses
To score highly, provide practical examples:
- A flowchart showing how referrals are made and followed up
- Named roles with responsibility for each stage of the safeguarding process
- How you audit safeguarding files to ensure nothing gets missed
Accountability turns good intentions into action. If your safeguarding processes clearly show who is responsible — and what happens when things go wrong — your tender will stand out.