Safeguarding adults practice and remote working in the COVID-19 era: challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Purpose This exploratory paper aims to examine the literature on the impact of COVID-19 on safeguarding adults practice. Design/methodology/approach A literature search was carried out in recently published articles to locate literature relating to COVID-19 and safeguarding adults in the UK and internationally. This included policy guidance and law, to describe the existing knowledge base, gaps in practice and areas that may require further research. Findings The findings suggest that measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic gave rise to remote working and virtual safeguarding practice. The findings highlight the need for empirical research into the impact of virtual safeguarding adults assessments and effective ways to support the needs and outcomes of those who may be at risk of or experiencing abuse and neglect while shielding, socially isolating or when working in an environment where social distancing is required. Research limitations/implications The paper is based on a review and analysis of published documents and not on other types of research. Originality/value Little is known about effective safeguarding adults practice in the era of shielding, self-isolation, social distancing and remote working. The paper adds to the body of knowledge in the field.

Remote support to victims of violence against women and domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic

“…telephone, email and chat, to provide help (Haberstroh et al, 2008), also defending a mixing online and f2f approach (Wentzel et al, 2016). Furthermore, RS using various digital solutions has been identified as an important and necessary alternative in supporting victims in crisis situations, such as that generated by COVID-19 (Anka et al, 2020). It has also been argued that a combination of online and f2f support, i.e.…”

“…In addition, the restrictions imposed on the COVID-19 lockdown also impacted the use of community resources, placing additional pressure on some of the most vulnerable, including victims (and potential perpetrators) of domestic abuse (Anka et al, 2020), as well in the response given by institutions and professionals working with the victims. In fact, professionals are faced with challenging tasks, such as predicting the potential consequences of the instability that was felt during the pandemic.…”

“…In fact, professionals are faced with challenging tasks, such as predicting the potential consequences of the instability that was felt during the pandemic. They were forced to find new models to support victims, fulfilling the requirements arising from the pandemic (Anka et al, 2020). Considering the restrictions associated with formal and informal help, remote working using digital technological platforms such as Zoom, Skype and telephone, emerged as necessary alternatives in the support of victims in situations of crisis (Anka et al, 2020;Bocioaga, 2020;Safe Lives, 2020).…”

Smart Workplaces for older adults: coping ‘ethically’ with technology pervasiveness

“…However, lack of acceptance, usability, and reliability of healthcare technologies remains an open issue and implies lack of respect in seniors’ freedom and timing [ 56 ]. Furthermore, unexpected periods of global crisis, such as the one concerning the COVID-19 outbreak, which are associated with abrupt challenges, such as the practice of self-isolation, social distancing and remote working, demand the initiation of novel practices to promote the acceptance of technology [ 57 ].…”

The impact of disasters on contraception in OECD member countries: a scoping review

“…The scoping review highlighted advantages and disadvantages of using telehealth for contraception. While it may improve access for some, those without internet or telephone may be excluded and it may become harder to identify people at risk of abuse and neglect [135].…”