Safeguarding

Keeping People Safe: Our Commitment to Safeguarding

At Ability Housing, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Safeguarding is the word we use to describe the work we do to protect your right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect.

What is Safeguarding?

Safeguarding means looking out for people who might be at risk of harm. This could be because of their age, a disability, or their personal circumstances. It involves taking action to prevent harm and responding quickly if we think someone is being treated badly.

What should I look out for?

Abuse can happen in many ways. It isn’t always physical. You should tell us if you or someone you know is experiencing:

Physical harm: Being hit, pushed, or hurt in a physical way.
Financial abuse: Someone taking your money or forcing you to pay for things.
Emotional abuse: Being bullied, threatened, or made to feel worthless.
Neglect: Not having enough food, heat, or the medical care you need.
Self-neglect: When someone is struggling to look after their own basic needs.

How to tell us your concerns

If you are worried about yourself, a neighbour, or a friend, please do not keep it to yourself.

Speak to your Housing & Support Officer: They are trained to listen and know exactly how to get you the right help.
Call our Contact Centre: You can report your concerns to our main team, and they will make sure the right managers are told immediately.
Tell a staff member you trust: Any member of the Ability team can start the safeguarding process for you.

What happens next?

When you tell us about a worry, we will:

Listen to you: We will take your concerns seriously.
Keep you involved: We will talk to you about what you want to happen.
Work with experts: Sometimes we work with the local council or healthcare professionals to make sure everyone stays safe.

Important: If you believe someone is in immediate danger or a crime is happening right now, please call the emergency services on 999 straight away.