HSE safeguarding services in the South West are urging the public, healthcare workers, families and carers to learn more about protecting adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation. The message comes as Adult Safeguarding Day is marked on Friday, 6 November 2026, under the theme “It is Everybody’s Right to be Safe from Harm”.
The awareness day reinforces that every adult should be able to live with dignity, independence and choice, while feeling safe from physical, psychological, sexual and financial abuse. Concerns may arise in homes, healthcare settings, residential services or the wider community.
HSE safeguarding puts adult rights at the centre
HSE South West says safeguarding should be guided by the individual’s rights, wishes, choices and personal circumstances. The approach is intended to support people in making their own decisions and maintaining control over their lives, rather than unnecessarily restricting their independence.
Kevin Collins, Principal Social Worker with the HSE South West Adult Safeguarding and Protection Team, said every adult has the right to feel safe, valued and protected, particularly people who may face a greater risk of abuse or neglect.
He emphasised that effective safeguarding involves listening to people, respecting their preferences and ensuring that they are treated with dignity, respect and compassion. The HSE’s message is that safeguarding should empower adults and give them a voice in any response to a concern.
Types of harm that safeguarding can address
Adult safeguarding concerns can include:
- Physical or psychological abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial abuse or exploitation
- Neglect
Recognising potential warning signs and knowing where to seek advice can help concerns to be addressed as early as possible. Safeguarding is not limited to one profession or service; it is a shared responsibility involving communities, families, carers and public bodies.
Adult Safeguarding Day awareness campaign
To support Adult Safeguarding Day, HSE South West will publish information through its social media channels. The campaign will include a video featuring local safeguarding staff and will provide Irish Sign Language accessibility.
The initiative is designed to improve public understanding of adult safeguarding and highlight that assistance is available when someone is worried about possible abuse, neglect or harm.
How to report an adult safeguarding concern
Anyone who has concerns about the abuse of a vulnerable adult by another person can contact the HSE South West Safeguarding and Protection Team. The service can be reached on 021 4927550 or 1800 225 500, Monday to Friday.
Further information about adult safeguarding is available through the HSE at www.hse.ie/safeguarding. People who are concerned about someone’s immediate safety should contact the emergency services without delay.
Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility
Adult Safeguarding Day provides an opportunity to remember that adults have the right to live free from harm while retaining dignity, choice and independence. The key takeaway from HSE South West is clear: speaking up, listening carefully and contacting the appropriate safeguarding team can help protect people when concerns arise.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE