Putting patient safety at the heart of our Practice
We believe every person who walks through our doors deserves to feel safe, supported and genuinely seen.
Safeguarding isn’t an add-on at our Practice, it’s a core part of what we do and our commitment to our patients. In both private and public healthcare settings across the UK, safeguarding protects people’s health, wellbeing and human rights, helping them live free from harm, abuse and neglect.
What safeguarding really means
Safeguarding is about doing more than just reacting when something goes wrong. It’s about:
Anticipating risk not just responding to it
Recognising vulnerability in all its forms
Taking action early to keep people safe and supported
NHS England describes safeguarding as protecting a person’s wellbeing and human rights, helping them live free from neglect or abuse; and it’s a responsibility shared by all health professionals, whether in public or private care. At our Practice, that means we prioritise expectations that align with national standards, so you and your loved ones know that safety and trust are at the heart of everything we do.
Who our safeguarding supports
Safeguarding applies to everyone, but some people are particularly vulnerable. Our team pays close attention to situations where someone may be at greater risk, including:
Babies, children and young people
Adults with additional care or support needs (eg cognitive impairment or disability)
Anyone who may struggle to express concerns or protect themselves
People affected by domestic abuse, neglect, exploitation or coercion
This approach reflects a broad understanding of vulnerability, one that recognises how different life experiences, health challenges, or social circumstances may affect someone’s safety and wellbeing.
How we keep you safe
We translate our safeguarding commitment into practical, day-to-day clinical practice:
Partnership working | We work closely with local partner agencies, including social services, safeguarding boards and specialist support services, so we can act quickly, collaboratively and with confidence if concerns arise. Collaboration like this reflects best practice used throughout UK health services.
Training and awareness | Every member of our team receives appropriate safeguarding training. That means all clinical and non-clinical understand what to look for and how to respond. We also have a safeguarding lead in the Practice who provides oversight and expertise, ensuring action is prompt and appropriate.
Processes, policy and culture | We maintain clear, accessible safeguarding policies and procedures. We also review them regularly, learning from what we do well and where we can improve. Safeguarding isn’t static, it evolves with legislation, best practice and the lived experiences of our patients.
Safe spaces and systems | From waiting areas to consultations, we create environments where people feel comfortable, listened to and respected. We flag patient records when additional follow-up is needed, always prioritising dignity and confidentiality.
Privacy, trust and confidentiality
Because privacy an trust go hand-in-hand, you can be confident we only share personal or sensitive information when necessary to protect safety or meet legal duties. We also follow approved guidance around record-access and proxy access to keep digital records secure.
Above all, we’re committed to open, honest conversations about how information may be used, always with your best interests at the centre. This careful balance between confidentiality and safeguarding ensures we respect both your privacy and your protection.
A safeguarding framework that works for you
Our safeguarding approach is built on training, governance and culture, ensuring safety is woven throughout your care from first contact to ongoing consultations and beyond. You can find out more about what our safeguarding framework on our dedicated webpage here.
If you have a concern, your voice matters - please speak up
If you, your child or someone you care about is experiencing harm, abuse, neglect or feels unsafe in any way, it’s important to speak up. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and anyone can refer directly to social services. Or, if you’re worried about a threat to immediate safety, call 999. Alternatively, if you need our assistance, we’re here to listen, support and act with care. During normal surgery hours you can speak with your Private GP, our Practice Manager, or ask to be connected with our Safeguarding Lead.
If you have questions about safeguarding or need support, get in contact with our Practice Manager:
Contact our front desk on 01273 733830
Email us at pm@thehovepractice.co.uk
Book online via our website www.thehovepractice.co.uk/bookonline
Pop in and see us: 86 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2EB