Adult safeguarding is central to protecting the dignity, rights and wellbeing of people who may face increased risks of abuse, harm or neglect. A new national framework now sets out how Ireland’s health and social care services should strengthen those protections across public, voluntary and private providers.
Adult Safeguarding Framework for Ireland
The Department of Health launched Ireland’s first National Policy Framework for Adult Safeguarding in the Health and Social Care Sector on 9 December 2025. The framework applies across health and social care services, regardless of whether they are delivered by public bodies, voluntary organisations or private providers.
Adult safeguarding involves more than responding to suspected abuse. It also includes preventative measures that promote safety, health, wellbeing and human rights while supporting adults to make informed choices and protect themselves.
What the framework aims to achieve
- Reduce the risk of abuse, harm and neglect.
- Strengthen protections and supports for adults at risk.
- Promote person-centred care and respect for individual rights.
- Improve consistency across health and social care services.
- Support policy and legislative measures for stronger safeguarding arrangements.
The framework is relevant to the Department of Health, the Health Service Executive (HSE), service providers and oversight bodies including HIQA. It forms part of a wider public-service approach to health protection and accountable care.
Stakeholder Forum and Policy Development
A Stakeholder Forum for implementation of the national framework was established by the Department of Health in June 2026. Its role is to support engagement and help inform how the framework is put into practice across the sector.
The policy development process began earlier. A steering group first met in 2019, while a public consultation on draft policy proposals took place from 31 January to 2 April 2024. The consultation invited views on the scope, content and implementation of the proposed policy.
The Institute of Public Health analysed the consultation responses and prepared a report summarising the views submitted. Earlier research also included focus groups with health and social care service users, an evidence review and a stakeholder workshop held in 2019.
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Resources for Adult Safeguarding
The Department of Health publication brings together guidance and research for professionals, service users and members of the public. Listed resources include HSE information on safeguarding vulnerable adults, Adult Safeguarding and Protection Teams, national standards approved by the Minister for Health, and Law Reform Commission work on a regulatory framework.
These materials can help explain reporting pathways, professional responsibilities and the importance of recognising concerns early. Anyone worried about an adult’s safety should seek advice from the relevant health or social care service and follow established safeguarding procedures.
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Why Adult Safeguarding Matters
Every adult has the right to live free from harm. Some people may need additional support because of illness, disability, dependence on care or other circumstances that can increase vulnerability. Effective safeguarding must therefore combine protection with empowerment, ensuring people are listened to and involved in decisions about their lives.
The new framework provides a national direction for improving safeguarding practice throughout Ireland’s health and social care system. Its success will depend on clear implementation, cooperation between agencies and continued attention to the experiences of service users.
Key takeaway: Ireland’s adult safeguarding framework creates a clearer, sector-wide foundation for preventing abuse, supporting human rights and improving safety in care settings.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
