Changes to the way safeguarding adult referrals are made
![Changes to referrals](https://nsafe-s3.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/03204539/Referral-Form-1-1-1080x800.png)
From 1st April 2024 professionals should only use the online referral form to refer safeguarding adult concerns.
This has been a planned change to support the improved quality of safeguarding adult referrals. Having multiple different options for people to refer safeguarding adults concerns can be confusing for the referrer and create difficulties for those processing concerns in the Local Authority. Moving to an online-only option for professionals will allow questions to be mandated which should be known by the referrer. These questions are essential to ensuring any subsequent action is as informed as it can be and also supports improved data collection for statutory returns.
The approach is replicated by other Safeguarding Adult Boards/Local Authorities in the region and also by our Newcastle Safeguarding Children Partnership/Children’s Social Care colleagues for child safeguarding concerns.
If you have any queries in relation to this change, please contact safeguardingboards@newcastle.gov.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this mean for how I, or my organisation, works?
What happens if the online form is unavailable or isn’t working?
Are we making it more difficult for some people to make safeguarding adults referrals?
What if a referral is made using an old version of the referral form?
What else can I do to improve the quality of safeguarding adult referrals?
Improving the quality of safeguarding adult referrals has been a key priority for the Newcastle Safeguarding Adults Board in 2023-24 and a number of resources have been produced/updated: