Adult safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. On Adult Safeguarding Day, the Health Service Executive (HSE) South West is reminding the public, healthcare workers, families and carers that every adult has the right to live free from abuse, neglect, exploitation and harm.
The awareness day takes place on Friday, 6 November 2026, under the theme “It is Everybody’s Right to be Safe from Harm”. The campaign focuses on protecting dignity, independence and personal choice while ensuring people know where to seek help when concerns arise.
Adult safeguarding supports dignity, choice and independence
Safeguarding concerns can arise in any environment, including a person’s home, healthcare settings, residential services or the wider community. Possible forms of harm include:
- Physical or psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial abuse or exploitation
- Neglect and failures to provide appropriate care
The HSE South West says safeguarding responses should be guided by the individual’s rights, wishes, preferences and circumstances. The aim is not to remove control from a person, but to support them to make informed decisions, retain independence and have their voice heard.
Safeguarding should empower people
Kevin Collins, Principal Social Worker with the HSE South West Adult Safeguarding and Protection Team, said every adult should feel safe, valued and protected, particularly people who may face a greater risk of abuse or neglect.
He emphasised that effective safeguarding involves listening carefully, respecting personal decisions and responding with dignity, compassion and respect. This person-centred approach is designed to protect people while avoiding unnecessary restrictions on their everyday choices.
HSE South West shares awareness information
As part of Adult Safeguarding Day, the HSE South West will publish information through its social media channels. The campaign also includes a video featuring local safeguarding staff, with accessibility provided through Irish Sign Language (ISL).
The initiative supports wider public awareness of safeguarding procedures and encourages people to act if they believe an adult may be experiencing abuse, neglect or exploitation. Members of the public do not need to be healthcare professionals to raise a concern.
How to report a safeguarding concern
Anyone concerned about the abuse of a vulnerable adult by another person can contact the HSE South West Safeguarding and Protection Team:
- Telephone: 021 4927550
- Freephone: 1800 225 500
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday
Further guidance is available through the HSE safeguarding information service at hse.ie/safeguarding. In an immediate emergency, contact An Garda Síochána or emergency services.
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Adult Safeguarding Day is a reminder that protection from harm is a fundamental right, not a responsibility limited to health and social care professionals. By learning to recognise warning signs, listening to concerns and contacting the appropriate HSE team, communities can help adults live with safety, dignity and greater control over their lives.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE