Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Speaking up for Safeguarding; Why Escalation Matters
Effective safeguarding relies on professionals working together, sharing information, asking questions and, when necessary, constructively challenging one another.
Most of the time, safeguarding concerns are resolved through discussion and collaborative decision-making. However, there may be occasions when professionals disagree about the level of risk, the actions being taken, or whether a child, young person or vulnerable adult at risk is receiving the support they need. In these situations, it is important that concerns are not left unresolved.
The Isle of Man Safeguarding Board's Escalation Policy provides a clear framework for addressing professional disagreements in a respectful, transparent and solution-focused way. The policy is not about blame, criticism or making complaints. Instead, it supports practitioners and organisations to work together to reach the best possible outcomes for those they serve.
Professional challenge is a vital part of safeguarding practice. Serious Case Management Reviews and safeguarding reviews across jurisdictions repeatedly highlight the importance of professional curiosity, respectful challenge and ensuring that concerns continue to be explored when practitioners believe risks remain. Creating a culture where staff feel confident to raise concerns supports better decision-making and strengthens multi-agency working.
Escalation should be considered when a practitioner believes that:
- A safeguarding concern has not been appropriately addressed.
- There is disagreement about the level of risk or required intervention.
- Significant concerns remain unresolved despite discussion.
- Decisions may place a child, vulnerable adult at risk or family at continued risk of harm.
In many cases, concerns can be resolved informally through professional discussion. Where agreement cannot be reached, the Escalation Policy provides a structured process that enables issues to be addressed promptly and at the appropriate level.
To support practitioners and managers, the Safeguarding Board has made the Escalation Policy available through our website and Resource Hub for Professionals and Practitioners, alongside supporting materials designed to promote confidence and understanding in its use.
We encourage all safeguarding professionals, managers and safeguarding leads to familiarise themselves with the policy and discuss it within their teams.
Remember: professional disagreement is healthy. Constructive challenge helps us to test our thinking, improve decision-making and, most importantly, keep the needs and safety of children, vulnerable adults at risk and families at the centre of our practice.
Find Out More
Visit the Safeguarding Board Website to access the policy- https://www.safeguardingboard.im/policies-and-procedures/
Together, we can continue to build a culture where professional challenge is valued, concerns are heard, and safeguarding remains everyone's responsibility.