The need and development of a forensic service in adults at risk of harm

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to provide proof of concept and evaluate the project for the development of a forensic service in safeguarding adults at risk of harm who may have suffered a non-accidental injury as a result of physical abuse or neglect.

Design/methodology/approach

This pilot project arising from a Safeguarding Adults Review was designed using an iterative process. Opinion from all partners of the Safeguarding Adults’ Boards in two adjacent areas as well as using expert forensic advice from the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine was sought.

Findings

All professionals recognised the need for a forensic service because at present decision-making around potential non-accidental injuries (NAI) may not be evidence based. The main barriers were seen as lack of knowledge and education combined with the area of work not being recognised as being needed and hence not commissioned. No similar service existed in England to aid the project being developed either academically or practically, other than reflecting what happens in children’s safeguarding.

Practical implications

The knowledge and skills as well as the resources developed for this project will aid safeguarding professionals to make more informed decisions when working with adults at risk of harm who have sustained a potential NAI.

Originality/value

This project has high originality with no other area in England offering a similar service or in the process of developing a service at present.

Citation

Alton, E., Tolchard, B. and Stark, M. (2023), "The need and development of a forensic service in adults at risk of harm", The Journal of Adult Protection, Vol. 25 No. 4, pp. 189-198. https://doi.org/10.1108/JAP-10-2022-0026