As home visit neurological physiotherapists, it is a privilege to be invited into our patients’ homes and lives. However, with that privilege comes responsibility. Safeguarding at SP Therapy Services is not a separate task— it is embedded in every patient interaction and built into everything we do.
We ensure that safeguarding is implied and embedded in every interaction with our patients, their families, carers, support workers, and the wider community.
In this article, Jayne Hallford, Clinical Coordinator, explains how we make this happen in practice.
Understanding Safeguarding at SP Therapy Services – Our Responsibilities
Every member of our physiotherapy team is HCPC registered. Therefore, they must maintain a working knowledge of three key frameworks:
- Safeguarding principles
- The Mental Capacity Act
- Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS)
These are not separate areas. Instead, they are interconnected and guide our daily clinical decisions and relationships.
Importantly, we believe that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. For us, it is not just a requirement—it is central to why we became physiotherapists.
Consent Is an Ongoing Process
At SP Therapy Services, we have developed core competencies that define the skills, knowledge, and behaviours required when delivering rehabilitation in patients’ homes.
This is especially important when working with people who have experienced a brain injury. Many of our patients may have difficulties with:
- Communication
- Attention and concentration
- Arousal levels
- Behaviour regulation
Because of this, consent must always be handled with care.
Consent is not a one-off checkbox. Instead, it is an ongoing process that underpins every therapeutic interaction. We respect patient autonomy at all times and adapt our approach to meet individual needs.
We also understand that recovery can be challenging. Patients may have “off days,” and our physiotherapists are trained to respond with empathy and flexibility. Supporting patients to re-engage at a comfortable level is a vital skill.
When Actions Do Not Match Patient Consent
Working in a patient’s home brings unique challenges. For example, there may be multiple people involved in care. Therefore, it is essential that everyone works in line with the patient’s wishes.
Our physiotherapists are trained to recognise when this is not happening.
For instance:
- A carer may insist on a technique that causes discomfort
- A family member may make decisions without consulting a patient who has capacity
In these situations, we must act. This requires both professional awareness and courage. We advocate for our patients while maintaining respectful relationships with everyone involved.
Identifying Signs of Abuse or Neglect
Because we see patients regularly in their own environments, we are well placed to notice changes that others might miss.
Some indicators may include:
- Unexplained bruising
- Changes in behaviour or mood
- Withdrawal from usual activities
- Poor personal hygiene or appearance
We may also notice signs of:
- Financial exploitation
- Emotional abuse
- Self-neglect
While these signs can be subtle, they should never be ignored.
Responding to Safeguarding Concerns at SP Therapy Services
When concerns arise, it is essential to respond appropriately. At the same time, we must maintain trust within the therapeutic relationship.
Not every concern requires an immediate safeguarding referral. However, every concern must be taken seriously and recorded clearly.
Our team considers key questions such as:
- Is this a safeguarding issue or a care quality concern?
- Does the patient have the capacity to make this decision?
- What level of risk is present?
- What action is proportionate?
To support this process, our clinical competency framework is regularly reviewed and updated. This ensures our team always has clear guidance in complex situations.
How We Maintain High Standards for Safeguarding at SP Therapy Services
Jayne Hallford is an experienced physiotherapist and Clinical Coordinator at SP Therapy Services. She leads on teamwork, training, and performance coaching.
Her role ensures that our team meets:
- HCPC standards of conduct, performance, and ethics
- Chartered Society of Physiotherapy professional standards
- Our own high internal standards within the SP Therapy Services Elite Service Model
Jayne explains:
“Safeguarding at SPTS is not a box-ticking exercise. It is part of how we deliver rehabilitation every day.
We have strong supervision and peer support systems. These allow our team to discuss challenges and concerns openly.
Ultimately, effective rehabilitation is built on trust.”
Working Together to Protect Vulnerable Adults
Safeguarding in the community requires collaboration.
If you are a family member, carer, or support worker, your observations are important. If you have concerns about someone’s wellbeing, please speak to your physiotherapist or contact SP Therapy Services directly.
For case managers and healthcare professionals, we welcome joint safeguarding discussions. We are committed to a multi-disciplinary approach that protects vulnerable adults.
Together, we can ensure every individual receives:
- High-quality neurological physiotherapy
- Respect and dignity
- A safe and supportive environment
Our team ensures that safeguarding at SP Therapy Services is central to neurological rehabilitation. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility—and early action can prevent serious harm.
Contact SP Therapy Services
If you would like to discuss safeguarding or learn more about our services:
📧 info@sptherapyservices.co.uk
📞 0161 764 3799
About the Author: Jayne Hallford
- BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy Studies, Leeds Beckett University (1993)
- Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (MCSP)
- Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- Specialist in Paediatric and Adult Neurological Rehabilitation