Raising awareness of abuse: A community-led approach
This Patient Safety Day, we’re launching the next stage of our work to help people recognise abuse and know where to turn for support. Commissioned by the Greenwich Safeguarding Adults Board, the project builds on a successful pilot and will now reach more communities across Greenwich.
For residents, particularly those from marginalised communities who may have faced discrimination, poor past experiences with council services, or who have a fear or lack of trust in wider agencies, speaking up about abuse and neglect can feel unsafe or even impossible. This project helps to break down those barriers by creating safe spaces shaped by the communities themselves.
Shaped with communities, not just for them
Our pilot partnered with community groups, faith groups, and volunteers to design sessions that felt relevant, respectful, and meaningful. This meant conversations could take place in ways that truly connected with people. One session was held entirely in Hindi so that language was no barrier. Another drew on Islamic teachings about protection, justice, and family wellbeing, grounding the discussion in values that group members trusted and recognised.
By respecting language, culture, and faith, the sessions helped people feel confident to speak openly, share their views, and understand where to go for help. Residents told us they left feeling more confident about recognising abuse and neglect, and knowing how to report it and get support if they needed it.
Why raising awareness of abuse matters
Raising awareness doesn’t stop abuse on its own but it is an important step in prevention. When people can recognise the signs of abuse and neglect, feel confident to speak up, and know where to find help, it becomes harder for abuse to stay hidden.
Abuse and neglect can occur in any community, and it often takes root when people feel unheard or unsupported. This project shows the value of working alongside communities, respecting culture and faith, and building relationships of trust. By engaging with groups who may be more at risk or face barriers to seeking help, we can strengthen safeguarding across Greenwich and ensure that residents know support is available when they need it.
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