What you’ll get from this guide

• How to identify adults in need of safeguarding, and understand your responsibilities.
• Practical guidance on capacity and confidentiality in the context of safeguarding.
• Further information on identifying and responding to domestic violence and trafficked persons.
• Advice on when to refer and/or report.

How to use this guide

This guidance will provide you with the key legal and ethical considerations you need to take into account concerning adult safeguarding, and signposts to other sources of support and information.

It is not a set of rules or instructions, or a substitute for careful reflection and discussion with colleagues. You can seek additional advice on specific dilemmas from the BMA’s medical ethics and human rights department, the GMC, or your medical defence organisation.