Exploring the Changes and Challenges of COVID-19 in Adult Safeguarding Practice: Qualitative Findings from a Mixed-Methods Project

Pritchard-Jones, Laura; Mehmi, Monique; Eccleston-Turner, Mark; Brammer, Alison

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present findings from a mixed methods study on the impact COVID-19 has had on adult safeguarding. The research sought to explore the challenges and opportunities presented by COVID-19 to both frontline and non-frontline professionals working in adult safeguarding.

Design/methodology/approach: A mixed-methods project was undertaken comprising a literature review, survey, semi-structured interviews, and a small number of Freedom of Information requests. This paper presents the findings predominantly from the survey and interviews.

Findings: Unsurprisingly, COVID-19 has presented a variety of challenges for professionals working in adult safeguarding. The themes that occurred most often were the day-to-day changes and challenges, relationships across sectors, information, and navigating the ethical questions in safeguarding.

Originality/value: The findings represent the first focused qualitative mixed-method study aimed at understanding more about the impact the pandemic has had on adult safeguarding, through the eyes of those professionals working in that field.

Citation

Pritchard-Jones, L., Mehmi, M., Eccleston-Turner, M., & Brammer, A. (2022). Exploring the Changes and Challenges of COVID-19 in Adult Safeguarding Practice: Qualitative Findings from a Mixed-Methods Project. Journal of Adult Protection, 24(3/4), 132-148. https://doi.org/10.1108/JAP-01-2022-0002

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 6, 2022
• Online Publication Date: Jun 20, 2022
• Publication Date: Oct 20, 2022
• Journal: Journal of Adult Protection
• Print ISSN: 1466-8203
• Publisher: Emerald
• Volume: 24
• Issue: 3/4
• Pages: 132-148
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JAP-01-2022-0002
• Keywords: Safeguarding; Practice; Nursing; Social work; COVID-19; Pandemic
• Publisher URL: https://doi.org/10.1108/JAP-01-2022-0002