The words to use
- Public interest disclosure
- Sharing confidential information without consent because it protects the patient or others from a serious risk of harm. Share the minimum, with someone who can act, and record why.
- Dental neglect
- Persistent failure to meet a child's basic oral health needs, for example parents who have access to care but repeatedly don't get painful decay treated.
- Was not brought
- Recording a child's missed appointment as "was not brought" rather than "did not attend", because an adult made the decision. A pattern may signal neglect.
- Safeguarding lead
- The named person in a dental practice who oversees safeguarding, supports staff who raise concerns and knows the local referral routes.
- Adult at risk
- An adult with care and support needs who is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect and cannot protect themselves (Care Act 2014, section 42).
