Healthwatch Newham recently presented an update on community safeguarding to the Newham Health and Wellbeing Board, following up on their 2022 report, 'Keeping all adults safe – engaging with Newham's communities about safeguarding'. The update highlighted the importance of understanding residents' experiences and building confidence in reporting concerns.
The report, presented at a community engagement event on 14 March 2025, aimed to increase residents' knowledge about safeguarding, enhance the Safeguarding Adults Board's understanding of community experiences, and establish a framework for community organisations to handle safeguarding concerns confidently. Approximately 50 residents from Newham's diverse communities attended the event, which was chaired by Cllr Canon Ann Easter, co-Chair of Healthwatch Newham, and closed by Sola Afuape, Independent Chair of Newham's Safeguarding Adult's Board.
Key objectives of the event included clarifying how the local authority responds to safeguarding concerns that do not meet statutory thresholds as per the Care Act 2014 and agreeing on the creation of a Decision Support Tool to assist organisations in recognising safeguarding abuse. Presentations were also made by residents sharing their experiences with the adult social care system.
Dr Adeola Agbebyi from LBN presented the 'Does it Look Like Newham?' (DILLN) tool, which helps compare safeguarding information with borough demographics. Data revealed an over-representation of older white people in safeguarding services, an over-representation of referrals from Black Caribbean residents (particularly in the 20-29 age group), and an under-representation of referrals from South Asian cohorts.
One resident, Angela, shared her experiences with transitions from children's to adult social care, highlighting the need for improved systems and communication. Sarifa, a community advocate, emphasised the importance of listening to residents' needs and providing accessible support. Mavis, a social care professional, shared a concerning case where a family's safeguarding concerns were not adequately addressed.
Newham Safeguarding Adults' Board has committed to incorporating resident insights into their strategic planning and will present an update during Adults' Safeguarding Week in November 2025.