Safeguarding is an important part of healthcare and social care, helping to make sure people who are more at risk are kept safe from harm, neglect, or abuse. There are two kinds of safeguarding training: one for safeguarding for adults training and one for safeguarding for children training. These trainings are both important, but they deal with different groups and different situations. Knowing the differences helps workers in healthcare, social work, and support roles to act correctly in their jobs.
This blog looks at the differences between the safeguarding courses, what each training covers, and why both are needed for professionals in the UK.
Safeguarding adults training helps professionals learn how to keep vulnerable adults safe from harm. People who need protection are often those with disabilities, mental health issues, long-term illnesses, or those who are being neglected or taken advantage of.
The main topics in adult safeguarding certification include:
Learning to spot signs of abuse, neglect, or someone being financially exploited.
Understanding the Mental Capacity Act and how it relates to making decisions.
Knowing how to raise concerns and follow the right steps when protecting someone.
Helping to support the rights, respect, and independence of vulnerable adults.
Online safety for adults courses provide accessible, flexible learning while upholding the same quality requirements for individuals who are unable to attend in person.
Key areas covered in a child safeguarding course include:
Identifying signs of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
Recognising neglect and developmental concerns.
Understanding parental risks such as substance abuse or domestic violence.
Knowing how to escalate concerns to child protection teams or authorities.
Professionals often opt for online safeguarding for children to complete this training conveniently, ensuring compliance and readiness in roles involving minors.
Children: Anyone under the age of 18.
Children are covered by the Children Act 1989 and 2004, as well as the guidance called "Working Together to Safeguard Children."
Risks and Challenges
For adults, the main risks include financial abuse, being neglected, or not having the mental ability to make decisions.
For children, the main risks involve abuse, neglect, being exploited, or living in unsafe conditions.
Children: Protection takes priority, and safeguarding is enforced regardless of consent.
The difference between safeguarding courses is clear: both programs focus on protection but cover different needs, risks, and legal rules. Whether you choose a face-to-face program or take an online safeguarding for adults or children, the knowledge you gain is important for your job. By finishing a child safeguarding course or getting an adult safeguarding certificate, you are taking a key step in helping those who need protection the most.
At Xpress Health, we help healthcare professionals by offering training, good career opportunities, and flexible nursing shifts that allow you to provide safe and caring care.
