Commissioner responds to findings of Thematic Review into Adult Practice Reviews in Wales

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, said:

“While I welcome the findings of the Thematic Review into Adult Practice Reviews (APRs) in Wales, which aims to identify key features and trends relating to APRs and improve safeguarding processes, it is disappointing that many of the issues identified reflect the findings of the last review in 2021 suggesting that little progress appears to have been made to address these.

“It’s important to note that the majority of cases reviewed related to older people and that other factors – including mental health issues, self-neglect and poor physical health – were also common, highlighting that the individuals involved in safeguarding processes often find themselves in highly vulnerable situations.

“I was particularly concerned that there often seems to be insufficient consideration of the ‘whole person’ and their needs within safeguarding processes, and that delays in providing advocacy mean potentially vulnerable individuals are left without appropriate representation, unable to make their voices and wishes heard.

“I support the recommendations in the review focused on tackling these issues, including prioritising the use of advocacy and improved reporting on its use, overseen by a lead individual in each region.

“In addition, I support calls for national guidance on Adult Safeguarding, to help ensure greater consistency and improve practice across Wales.

“There is also a need to not only improve the way that data is collected and collated in relation to adult safeguarding, but to ensure this is analysed more effectively, with a far greater focus on people’s experiences and outcomes, so that this can shape policy and practice.

“It is crucial that urgent, proactive action is taken to respond to the review and its recommendations, and I welcome the call for clear, concise and actionable recommendations within reviews to maximise learning. This will help to ensure that greater support and protection is provided to some of our most vulnerable citizens, and this is something I will continue to press for as Commissioner.”