Safeguarding Statement

At Nextsmartstep, the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of our residents are our absolute priorities. With over 20 years of front-line experience in the care and housing sectors, our leadership team understands that robust safeguarding is the foundation of efective supported living.

We operate a Zero-Tolerance approach to abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Our practices are strictly aligned with the Care Act 2014, the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and local Safeguarding Adults Board (SAB) frameworks.

Our Safeguarding Principles

We follow the six statutory principles of the Care Act to ensure person-centred protection:

1. Empowerment: We support residents to make their own decisions and give informed consent.

2. Prevention: We take proactive action to stop abuse before it happens through rigorous risk assessments and staf training.

3. Proportionality: Our response is always the least intrusive response appropriate to the risk presented.

4. Protection: We provide immediate support and representation for those in greatest need.

5. Partnership: We work transparently with Local Authorities, the NHS, and the Police to form a “ring of safety” around our residents.

6. Accountability: We take full responsibility for our safeguarding practices and maintain a culture of transparency

Our Commitment to Professionals

As an expert-led provider, we guarantee:

• Rapid Reporting: All safeguarding concerns are reported to the host Local Authority
and the referring Social Worker within 24 hours.

• Trained Staf: 100% of our team undergoes enhanced DBS checks and mandatory
Safeguarding Level 2/3 training.

• Duty of Candour: We maintain an open, honest culture where staf and residents feel
safe to “Whistleblow” or raise concerns without fear of reprisal.

How to Raise a Concern

If you have a concern regarding a resident or the quality of our support, please contact our Lead Safeguarding Oficer immediately:

• Email: info@nextsmartstep.co.uk

• Emergency: In cases of immediate danger, always dial 999.