Benenden Hospital is committed to safeguarding all patients who access our services. The term safeguarding covers everything that assists a child, young person or adult at risk to live a life that is free from harm, abuse and neglect and which enables them to retain independence, well-being, dignity and choice. Safeguarding is about preventing abuse and neglect, as well as promoting good practice for responding to concerns on a multi-agency basis.

Benenden Hospital confirms the following:

• We fully meet the statutory requirements for completing Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks
• Our safeguarding policies are robust and are reviewed annually, or sooner, if necessary, to ensure compliance with new national guidance or legislation
• All eligible staff have access to appropriate safeguarding training, and completion of mandatory training is monitored through audits and direct supervision and surveillance. A training strategy is in place to ensure staff receive the training required for their roles
• We have a named Safeguarding Lead (Kelly Young) and a Deputy Safeguarding Lead (Carly Spice), each with clearly defined responsibilities for Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults
• The departments have written information and guidance on Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults
• We work proactively with partner agencies and organisations and contribute to the Local Safeguarding Adult Forum
• Executive Lead: Claire Harley - Hospital Director