Outcome 4 in Action - Rights Protection and Justice - Safeguarding Adults from Abuse (SAFA) interagency response pilot

In 2016, Waitemata Police and Waitemata DHB jointly ran a six-month pilot of the SAFA response across the Waitemata District. As a result 40 victims were removed from unsafe situations and instead connected with support and services to improve their safety.

A Police review concluded that the pilot gave Police staff the ability to better recognise vulnerable adults, improve their confidence in responding and the processes to provide victim support. Feedback from stakeholders was very positive:

“Stakeholders felt that the process increased accountability for improving the safety of vulnerable adults, facilitating engagement of partner agencies and a more collective response.”

“Agencies felt the Pilot had supported them to respond better to the ‘grey areas’, particularly around what to consider when managing relationships with vulnerable adults, assessing risk and identifying appropriate support services and strategies.”

Safeguarding Adults Consultant and Coordinator, Sue Hobbs says:

“A Safeguarding Adults framework is needed nationwide for ‘vulnerable’ adults (under 65 years) with complex care and support needs who are at risk of or experiencing abuse, much like the new service, Elder Abuse Response Service (EARS), supports older adults (65 years and over) who are at risk of abuse, neglect and harm.

“SAFA will support organisations to work together to safeguard adults with complex care and support needs who are at risk of or experiencing abuse or neglect – which includes family harm and sexual harm.”

Resources and Guidance to support the implementation of Outcome 4

Download handout with Resources section [PDF, 187 KB]