When delivering medications you are more likely than any other member of the pharmacy team to come across vulnerable people as you will see customers in their own environment. As a member of the pharmacy team you have a professional, legal, moral and ethical duty to protect children and vulnerable adults from abuse whether physical, emotional, sexual, financial or in the form of neglect.

There will be a child and vulnerable adult protection policy in your pharmacy. It is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with the type of things to look out for which could be potential signs of abuse.

If you suspect abuse or a safeguarding issue DO NOT DO NOTHING and think that it is none of your business, or that someone else will deal with it. If there is a possibility that an individual is seriously at risk of harm, make a record of what you have noticed, speak to your pharmacist and follow the reporting procedures detailed in your policy.

Remember if you feel an individual may be in immediate danger you must call the police using the 999 service.
Refer to the Counter Excellence module 'Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults' for further information.