Include:  

• physical indicators 

• behavioural indicators 

• situational / contextual 

• compounding risk factors 

Document these. 

These can include: 

• the person themselves 

• your own observations 

• existing, recent or historical records 

• information from colleagues 

• information from other services or professionals 

• situational or contextual information 

• your intuition. 

Find out more about these sources of information.

This involves the ability to look beneath the surface and to sense-make, at a preliminary level. 

It’s about looking beyond just the confirmed facts. 

This is about asking open questions, enquiring and supporting. There should be no ‘rushed appointments’ when you suspect violence, abuse or neglect.  

It’s important to: 

• uphold people’s dignity 

• treat people with kindness and respect 

• understand and honour their cultural needs 

• listen without judgement 

• ensure accessibility to the communication supports people need 

• allow enough time 

• take concerns seriously 

• create a safe environment 

• enable the safe disclosure of abuse. 

Remember that people might not understand that what they’re experiencing is violence, abuse or neglect. 

Demonstrate cultural awareness and sensitivity, and a willingness to learn, when providing safeguarding services to tāngata whaikaha Māori and whānau.

It’s important to: 

• seek to uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, in your approach (read Te Aorerekura, The National Strategy for the Elimination of Family Violence and Sexual Violence for ideas)

• develop or bring a core understanding of Te Ao Māori and tikanga Māori to your ways of working: 

• respect cultural identity and values 

• enable whānau involvement in decisions (check first that this is what the person you’re supporting wants) 

• listen to and work alongside tāngata whaikaha Māori and whānau to help ensure services are safe, respectful and effective 

• respect tikanga and Māori perspectives on well-being 

• partner with Māori co-workers and organisations 

• participate in training opportunities in te reo Māori and tikanga Māori to help support your cultural awareness and practice.  

Consider these key practices that support Tikanga Māori.

Understand the demographics in your community, so you’re aware of the different ethnic groups who live and work in your safeguarding area. 

Take opportunities to learn about their cultural practices and values so you can act appropriately when working with these groups. 

Offset these biases by consulting with or involving your co-workers, clinical supervisor or manager, to ensure an open and balanced view.  

This level of self-awareness and self-reflection will help you guard against those attitudes or beliefs affecting your analysis and actions. 

It’s a unique source of wisdom that will often signal something very important. 

Note: intuition should trigger consultation, not solo decision-making.

Read the related material on ethical decision-making.

especially noting the need to:  

• balance respect for autonomy with safety needs 

• maintain confidentiality unless there is risk of serious harm 

• share only what is necessary 

• seek guidance and input from others. 

Read the related material on professional boundaries, especially noting the need to: 

•  stay within your role and competence (recognise when you’re out of your depth and seek support) 

•  avoid acting as a counsellor or investigator – even if you’re trained as one; that’s not your role in risk identification and assessment, so keep to your lane 

•  avoid dual relationships that could affect safety or trust 

•  use clinical / professional supervision regularly 

•  adhere to your organisational processes (for example, always involve your manager when dealing with complexity and in your decision making, and always escalate when needed). 

You must seek support or escalate if: 

•  You feel unsure what to do. 

• The situation of concern is escalating. 

• There is potential serious harm. 

• The person’s needs exceed the boundaries of your role. 

• You’re operating ‘outside your lane’ – even if you feel sure you know what to do. 

Consult with your clinical supervisor, your manager, and your co-workers, and ask for support when needed. 

• Their experience is invaluable. 

• It’s important you don’t reach conclusions and make decisions on your own.