Safeguarding and sexual assault

As clinicians, it is our duty to safeguard vulnerable adults and children, and recognize and act on previous, current and potential abuse. Sexual assault and abuse are common in both children and adults. It is therefore vital that we are alert to signs of this, and that we understand how best to manage this sensitive situation, working with the multidisciplinary team to provide holistic support that meets both the physical and psychological needs of the individual. It is important to understand the law relating to sexual activity in young people, and to be able to assess whether they have the capacity to consent to this. We should be vigilant for signs of potential sexual exploitation in vulnerable individuals and ensure safeguarding procedures are put in place when this is suspected.