Safeguarding and Trust
Safeguarding and Trust
Safety & Trust
Last updated: 16 April 2026
Our Commitment to Safety
At ElderBridge, the safety and wellbeing of both our elderly clients and our companions is our highest priority. We operate a robust safety framework that includes rigorous vetting, ongoing training, clear emergency protocols, and a culture of transparency and trust.
1. Companion Vetting & DBS Checks
Every ElderBridge companion undergoes a thorough background check before being approved to provide services:
- Enhanced DBS Check: All companions must have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, renewed every 3 years.
- Reference Checks: Two professional or character references are verified.
- Identity Verification: Passport or driving licence and proof of address.
- Right to Work: Confirmation of UK work eligibility.
- Interview & Training: In-person interview and mandatory safeguarding induction.
2. Safeguarding Policy (UK)
ElderBridge follows the Care Act 2014 safeguarding principles. We are committed to preventing abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
- Prevention: Training all companions to recognise signs of abuse (physical, emotional, financial, neglect).
- Protection: Clear reporting lines – all concerns go to our Safeguarding Lead within 24 hours.
- Partnership: We work with local authorities, Adult Social Care, and the Safeguarding Adults Board (SAB) when required.
- Accountability: Every safeguarding concern is logged, investigated, and reviewed.
To report a safeguarding concern, call: 08087521944 or email elderbridgecompanion@gmail.com
3. Lone Worker Safety
Our companions work alone in clients' homes. We protect them through:
- Check-in System: Companions check-in via our app at the start and end of each visit. If no check-out within 15 minutes of scheduled end, our office calls to verify safety.
- Emergency Alert Button: Companions carry a mobile panic button (GPS-enabled) connected to a 24/7 response centre.
- No-Go Policy: Companions are trained to leave immediately if a client shows aggressive behaviour, intoxication, or unsafe conditions.
- Risk Assessments: Every client home has a pre-visit risk assessment (access, pets, hazards, neighbourhood safety).
4. Client Safety & Wellbeing
We ensure elderly clients are safe and respected:
- Introductory Visit: A free 30-minute meet-and-greet to assess compatibility and environment.
- Client Risk Disclosure: Families must disclose fall risks, wandering tendencies, or agitation triggers.
- No-Care Boundary: Companions never perform personal care (bathing, toileting, medication). If a client needs care, we refer to regulated providers.
- Emergency Protocol: Companions call 999 immediately if a client is unresponsive, injured, or acutely unwell.
5. Emergency Response Guide
If a client falls but is conscious:
- Do not move them – call 999 if they complain of pain or cannot get up.
- Keep them warm and comfortable while waiting for ambulance.
- Contact emergency contact listed in client file.
If a client is unresponsive:
- Call 999 immediately – state "unconscious elderly person".
- Follow ambulance dispatcher instructions (CPR if trained).
- Do not leave client alone unless absolutely necessary.
If a client shows signs of stroke (FAST):
- Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty – call 999 immediately.
- Note the time symptoms started.
If companion feels unsafe (aggression, intoxication, weapon):
- Leave immediately – do not argue.
- Call 999 if threat of violence.
- Report to ElderBridge office within 1 hour.
6. Incident Reporting
All incidents – no matter how minor – must be reported. This includes:
- Accidents (falls, injuries, property damage)
- Near misses (potential harm avoided)
- Verbal or physical aggression
- Medical emergencies
- Safeguarding concerns
How to report: Use our incident form within 24 hours. All reports are reviewed by our Safety & Compliance Officer.
7. Insurance & Liability
ElderBridge holds comprehensive:
- Public Liability Insurance: £5 million cover.
- Employer's Liability Insurance: £10 million cover (for companions).
- Professional Indemnity Insurance: £1 million cover.
All companions are covered while performing approved companionship activities. Clients are advised to maintain their own home contents insurance.
8. Trust & Transparency
We believe in open communication:
- Client Feedback: After every 5 visits, we request anonymous feedback.
- Complaints Procedure: Any complaint is acknowledged within 2 working days and resolved within 14 days.
- Whistleblowing Policy: Companions can report concerns anonymously without fear of retaliation.
- Regular Audits: We conduct quarterly safety audits and publish an annual safety report.
9. Data Protection in Safety Incidents
When we report a safeguarding or medical incident, we share only necessary information with emergency services or Adult Social Care. We never share health data beyond what is legally required. All incident reports are stored securely and retained for 7 years.