A partnership approach to safeguarding

Through multiple agency working Sutton Council and partners were able to support local resident, Mr Kiln, to access the support he required within different areas including bereavement, substance misuse, mental health and fire safety.

Mr Kiln was referred to our service through the police. He had been unexpectedly absent from work with no contact and as a result a missing persons report had been filed by his colleagues. The police had followed up and found Mr Kiln in his home grieving the loss of his sister. The police identified signs of alcohol misuse, self-neglect and environmental neglect and so referred Mr Kiln to our First Response Team. 

Initially our Social Worker, Sofia Rodrigues was unable to get in touch with Mr Kiln either through the telephone or at his home. As concerns for the welfare and safety of Mr Kiln had grown, a joint visit with Sofia and the police was arranged. On this occasion Sofia was able to enter the home and meet with Mr Kiln.

“When I first met Mr Kiln at his home he was upset and distressed and made it clear he didn’t want me there. There were clear signs of alcohol misuse and self neglect. I was able to explain why I was there and then have a calm conversation with Mr Kiln and discuss the loss and grief he was experiencing. Having spoken to Mr Kiln and seen the situation first hand, I was able to suggest ways in which he could receive support through this difficult time in ways that suited him best.”

The London Fire Brigade was also contacted at this time to install fire alarms as Sofia had noticed there weren’t any in the house and wanted this potential risk to Mr Kiln removed. 

Sofia tells us, “This early intervention and multi-agency support has enabled Mr Kiln to self-help and come through this difficult time in his life. He is now back at work and knows there are people close by who care about him and want to support him. He is also aware of how to access community based support if needed in the future. It is always so wonderful to see someone back on their feet and doing so well after going through such a difficult time.”

Safeguarding adults means helping adults at risk who need support from community care services to keep their independence, remain safe and exercise choice in their life.

Find out more about safeguarding in Sutton and how to report any concerns.