Understanding Safeguarding
What safeguarding means and when it applies
Safeguarding protects adults from abuse, neglect or harm — especially when they may not be able to protect themselves.
It’s about protecting adults at risk — ensuring people live free from harm, neglect or abuse.
Safeguarding applies when someone:
Has care and support needs (whether or not they receive care).
Is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect.
Cannot protect themselves as a result.
This definition comes from the Care Act 2014.
Abuse can be physical, sexual, psychological, financial, or discriminatory. It also includes neglect, modern slavery, organisational abuse or self-neglect (for example, living in unsafe conditions).
Safeguarding isn’t just about reacting — it’s about noticing, listening, and acting early to prevent harm.
People: We treat every concern with compassion and respect.
Places: We keep homes safe and supportive.
Partnerships: We work with residents, families, and agencies to protect people from harm.
Recognising and Reporting Concerns
What to do if you're worried about someone
You don’t have to be certain — if something feels wrong, tell us. We’ll listen and take action.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. Your safety comes first.
Speak to any Lace Housing colleague.
Contact Lincolnshire County Council’s Safeguarding Team on 01522 782155.
Report the concern yourself — anyone can raise a concern.
We’ll listen carefully, act sensitively and involve the right agencies.
If needed, we’ll refer to Lincolnshire County Council’s Safeguarding Team, who may coordinate a multi-agency meeting to agree actions.
You don’t need proof — just speak up. Sharing a concern early can prevent harm.
People: We take every concern seriously.
Places: We protect safe, caring environments.
Partnerships: We share information responsibly to keep everyone safe.
See also: Inclusive Services and Advocacy and Safeguarding Factsheet.
How We Work
The Lace approach to safeguarding
Our approach is based on dignity, respect, and collaboration — protecting people while involving them in every decision that affects them.
We act with care and respect, following the principle of “no decision about me, without me” — meaning we involve people in choices that affect them wherever possible.
We make sure all homes and communal areas are safe, welcoming spaces.
Staff are trained regularly to recognise signs of risk and respond appropriately.
We work closely with Lincolnshire County Council, health services, and care partners to coordinate protection and share information appropriately.
We handle information with discretion. We may share details without consent only when necessary to prevent serious risk, crime, or harm — and always on a strict need-to-know basis.
Everyone — residents, families, staff, and visitors — has a role in keeping our communities safe.
People: We respond with empathy and care.
Places: We keep safety at the heart of every home.
Partnerships: We work closely with Lincolnshire County Council Adult Safeguarding Team, health professionals, care providers, and the police, never in isolation.
See our Safeguarding Factsheet | Inclusive Service Delivery Policy | Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging page.
Getting Help and Support
You’re not alone — we’re here to listen
If you’re worried about yourself or someone else, we’ll listen, act quickly, and help you find the right support.
Speak to any member of the Lace Team — we’ll listen and help you take the next step. You can also contact Lincolnshire County Council’s Safeguarding Team on 01522 782155 or email safeguardingadults@lincolnshire.gov.uk.
Tell us as soon as you can. We’ll treat your information in confidence, support you to stay safe, and connect you to trusted help.
We’ll never pressure you to act before you’re ready. We’ll provide advocacy, emotional support and practical guidance throughout.
We work alongside the police, NHS, and social care services to ensure coordinated protection and ongoing support.
People: We listen and protect without judgement.
Places: We make homes safe, not stressful.
Partnerships: We act early with others to prevent harm and build trust.
