Safeguarding Adults Response

Safeguarding Adults From Abuse (SAFA) is an integrated multi-agency approach to safeguarding adults who are at risk of harm. It is particularly focused on safeguarding disabled people and tāngata whaikaha Māori, with priority on disagbled people who are receiving funded support from Disability Support Services (DSS).

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SAFA is not an emergency or crisis service. Please dial 111 if there is an emergency. 

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SAFA is a Disability Abuse Prevention and Response (DAPAR) service funded by the Ministry of Social Development. It aligns with Te Aorerekura, the All of Government National Strategy and Action Plan to eliminate family violence and sexual violence. It is also a response to the kind of abuse highlighted by the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State and Faith Based Care, as outlined in its 2024 report Whanaketia. ​

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Anyone can make a safeguarding referral when they have a concern regarding a disabled person’s safety or situation.

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The case will be assigned to a Safeguarding Coordinator who will:

• Take a person-directed and whānau centred approach

• Determine the risk of immediate danger or harm, and coordinate immediate intervention as required

• Seek to understand the background and situation of concern

• Provide a single point of contact

• Coordinate Safeguarding strategy meetings with the individual, his/her whānau and supporters, police, provider and other health professionals.

• Identify and address whānau needs in a holistic way

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This coordinated response ensures that an Adult at Risk remains in control of the decision making, and that there is a common understanding of the risks and the necessary steps to ensure safety and enhanced wellbeing.

 

It works in connection with other supports such as Advocacy and Supported Decision Making to assist people to be safe and feel safe, retain their independence, and increase their resilience and wellbeing.