Cabinet approves annual Corporate Safeguarding Report

Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet has approved the 2023 – 2024 Corporate Safeguarding report, outlining details of the widespread safeguarding provision offered by Social Services, as well as how vulnerable adults and children continue to be supported across all directorates, offering a ‘one council’ approach to safeguarding.

Covering a variety of key areas ranging from Adult Social Care, Children and Family Services, to Housing, and Education, the report highlights how safeguarding arrangements continue to be improved and strengthened, with enhanced operating models put in place for Children and Family Services and Adult Social Care over the last year.   

Against a backdrop of rising referrals for adults at risk, as well as for Children and Family Services, staff from Social Services continue to be supported, ensuring that the increased caseload is still managed well and within compliance targets.

Deputy Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council, Cllr Jane Gebbie, said: “The safeguarding of children and adults at risk within the community is a shared responsibility and the council welcomes its corporate obligation to protect vulnerable individuals from harm, abuse, and neglect.

“Although statistics revealed in the report show a rise in safeguarding referrals, it’s reassuring that the social care teams are managing the challenge and continue to improve safeguarding services – something which will remain a priority for 2024 – 2025.

“Even with the budget pressures currently experienced by the council, safeguarding will continue to be of prime importance to the local authority, guaranteeing our best efforts to protect those who are most vulnerable across the county borough.”