Safeguarding and prevention

Nutritional support for adults at risk

BSL Support

The Francis Report on Mid-Staffordshire NHS Inquiry (2013) found that the lack of the following was a significant factor in poor outcomes for adults at risk.

  • Basic food provision
  • Feeding and
  • Recording

Whilst the report focused on hospital and care settings, it was recognised that people living in the community are similarly at risk.


Information and actions are needed to prevent harm and reduce safeguarding concerns across all care settings and people living in the community.

To support professionals and carers, information has been collated on how to:

  • Understand the importance of maintaining good nutrition and hydration
  • Check if someone is under weight
  • Record daily intakes to understand patterns
  • Make food more nutritious and beneficial for weight gain.

Barts Health NHS Trust Community Nutrition and Dietetics information

British Association of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (BAPEN) are a charitable association that raises awareness of malnutrition and works to advance the nutritional care of patients and those at risk from malnutrition in the wider community.

They work with:

  • Dietitians 
  • Doctors & Scientists
  • Nurses 
  • Patients
  • Pharmacists

For additional information, resources and practice toolkits please visit www.bapen.org.uk

Alternatively, you can access community nutritional or dietetic services via the individuals GP if medical assessment and support is required.