VAC's Health & Social Care Networking Officer Harjeet Matharu attended the launch event of new Safeguarding Adults initiative on 30 November.  Harjeet is promoting the new helpline and meeting with safeguarding team to look at training for the voluntary sector around safeguarding.

The launch, attended by 117 delegates from key organisations across the city, showcased the progress being made in Coventry, highlighted key priority areas for the future and launched a new single contact telephone number for the public to report concerns - 024 7683 3800 - alongside a new leaflet and updated website hosting key information, useful contacts and advice.

One key part of the day, and well received by those attending, was four audio case studies based on real life situations in Coventry. The purpose of this particular presentation was to illustrate the often complex and sensitive area of safeguarding and how the process makes a positive difference to people's lives.

Martin Reeves, Chief Executive of Coventry City Council gave the opening address, followed by Cllr Heather Johnson, Cabinet Member, who holds responsibility for safeguarding adults. Presentations were also given by Denise Porter, Deputy Regional Director from the Department of Health; Linda Sanders, Chair of the West Midlands Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS); Sue Holder, Detective Chief Inspector, West Midlands Police; Sandra Williams, Age Concern Coventry; and Fay Baillie, Director of Nursing, NHS Coventry,

Brian Walsh, Director of Community Services, at the city council added, "Safeguarding is everyone's business, and we all have a duty to report concerns if we think someone is being abused or neglected. The launch highlighted how working together, sharing information and understanding the complexity involved, is more vitally important than ever. The engagement and commitment from all organisations in the city is essential to tackle safeguarding and the launch re-affirmed agencies commitment."

To report safeguarding concerns call the new contact telephone number on 024 7683 3800. The new website is www.coventry.gov.uk/safeguarding

For general information about the safeguarding adults contact the safeguarding adults office on 024 7683 3419 or email safeguarding.adults.team@coventry.gov.uk