Safeguarding is about protecting adults with care and support needs from abuse, neglect and exploitation. In Sandwell, residents, carers, volunteers, personal assistants, providers and professionals all have a role in raising concerns quickly if someone is at risk.
When to call 999
If someone is seriously hurt, in immediate danger or you need urgent police, ambulance or fire service help, call 999 first. Sandwell’s safeguarding pages are clear that immediate safety comes before anything else.
How to report adult abuse or neglect in Sandwell
If the situation is not an emergency but you are worried that an adult is at risk of harm, Sandwell says to act now rather than wait for more evidence. You can contact Adult Social Care directly:
- Adult Social Care / Sandwell Enquiry: 0121 569 2266
- Email: sandwell_enquiry@sandwell.gov.uk
- Opening hours: 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 5pm Friday
- Out of hours Emergency Duty Team: 0121 569 2355
If the person is in a registered service such as a care home, supported living service or day service, Sandwell also says you should tell the manager on duty there.
Who should raise concerns
The borough specifically says that carers, volunteers, personal assistants and people working in health or social care should report their concerns. Sandwell provides an Adult Safeguarding Concern Form for people who need to raise a formal concern through the safeguarding process.
What usually happens after a report
Sandwell explains that staff will ask you questions about the concern, make sure immediate action is taken so the adult is safe, and gather information from other agencies where necessary. The person at risk should be offered advice and choices about the next steps. Where safeguarding action is needed, agencies such as the council, NHS and police may agree a safeguarding plan and then review it.
How safeguarding is organised locally
Multi-agency safeguarding in the borough is overseen by the Sandwell Safeguarding Adults Board (SSAB). The board brings together health, social care, police, housing and voluntary sector representatives to improve local policy, learning, public awareness and practice.
If you are not sure whether to report
Sandwell’s public message is straightforward: if you know, suspect or are worried that an adult with care and support needs is being harmed, report it. You do not need to investigate the situation yourself before contacting the council.
Useful Sandwell links
- Report adult abuse
- Safeguarding adults
- What will happen when you report abuse?
- Sandwell Safeguarding Adults Board
Last reviewed: 30 March 2026. Opening times, charges, referral routes, eligibility rules and commissioned services can change, so always use the linked Sandwell or NHS service before you travel, apply or rely on a phone number.
