Case Study

You have just started work at a care home for adults with learning difficulties. You have been told by a friend that this setting has a poor reputation and is always looking for staff. On the day you start you are told that three members of staff have called in sick and that the only agency staff that were available are domestic workers who do not speak English particularly well. During the morning you hear shouting coming from one of the resident’s rooms and when you look in you see the agency worker struggling with the resident and their clothing.

1. What parts of this scenario might indicate an increased risk of abuse happening?
2. What unsafe practices does this scenario suggest?
3. What should you do immediately?
4. What else should you do to follow up this situation?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.