HSE publishes 2023 National Safeguarding Office Annual Report for 2023

The HSE has published the 2023 National Safeguarding Office Annual Report which shows a 33% increase in the number of cases reported last year when compared to the previous year.  The report outlines adult safeguarding activity, developments and trends.

Key highlights

• Total number of safeguarding concerns reported to the HSE in 2023 was 18,290 - a 33% (13,700) increase on 2022.
  • 12,269 concerns regarding adults 18-64 years (19% increase on 2022)
  • 5,582 concerns regarding adults 65+ years (13% increase on 2022)
  • 32% (1,738) increase in safeguarding reports regarding people aged over 80
• Referrals from service settings such as residential and nursing homes increased by 4,000.

The safety and protection of adults at risk of abuse is a key priority for the HSE and its funded agencies.  The report was launched at a conference in Limerick called “Working together to safeguard human rights” hosted by HSE Mid West. The conference promotes greater understanding and awareness of adult safeguarding among services and communities.

Amanda Casey, HSE Chief Social Worker said, “Adult safeguarding is about providing supports for all adults at risk to live their lives free from harm and abuse.  This requires all of us to take steps to ensure that people using our services, and those who care for them, are aware of their rights and are supported to raise concerns.  We do this by raising awareness and providing training for our staff about signs and indicators of abuse and by supporting them to report concerns.  Today’s conference illustrates the collaboration and input needed to keep adult safeguarding at the core of all we do across our health and social care services.  It also demonstrates the HSEs commitment to advancing the human rights of people we provide care for”.

Tim Hanly, HSE National Safeguarding Office said; “The National Safeguarding Office Report for 2023 is a vital reminder of the importance of adult safeguarding across health and social care services. There were over 18,000 adult abuse reports to the HSE last year. This is a 33% increase on 2022 and the most significant year-on-year increase since safeguarding and protection teams were set up by the HSE in 2015. Reports are significantly increased across our service settings, however detection and response to adult abuse especially elder abuse in all settings still remains challenged by a deficit in awareness and understanding - perhaps even recognition of the issue - among staff, families and communities.”