More than 50 safeguarding professionals from across Kent gathered at Ashford Borough Council this week to boost their understanding of the Kent and Medway Safeguarding Adults Board (KMSAB) Multi-Agency Risk Management (MARM) Framework.
The event, hosted by Ashford Borough Council and supported by Kent Housing Group, was designed to raise awareness of the MARM process, which supports professionals in working collaboratively to safeguard adults who may be at risk of serious harm but do not meet the threshold for statutory safeguarding interventions.
Delegates represented a wide range of sectors including adult social care, health services, policing, housing, mental health, and the voluntary and community sector. Through a series of interactive workshops and case study discussions, attendees explored how the MARM Framework can be practically applied to improve outcomes for adults with complex needs.
Sessions were delivered by representatives from the KMSAB, Medway Adult Social Care and Housing, Kent County Council’s Strategic Safeguarding Team, and Ashford Borough Council, offering a breadth of professional insight and real-world application.
Opening and closing the event, Tracey Kerly, Chief Executive of Ashford Borough Council, praised the commitment of the professionals in attendance:
“It’s encouraging to see such strong engagement from professionals across the county. The MARM Framework is a vital tool for ensuring that those at risk of harm do not fall through the gaps, especially when they’re not eligible for safeguarding under the Care Act 2014. Events like this help us to build a consistent, informed, and joined-up approach to protecting adults.”
In addition to enhancing practical knowledge, the event provided valuable opportunities for networking, knowledge-sharing, and reflection on key principles such as professional curiosity, risk assessment, and the balance between respecting individual autonomy and preventing harm.
As safeguarding challenges grow increasingly complex, the event underscored the importance of multi-agency collaboration and continuous professional development to ensure vulnerable adults across Kent receive the protection and support they need.
To view the slidedeck visit: KMSAB Multi Agency Risk Management event – Kent Housing Group
For more information on the KMSAB MARM Framework, visit final_marm_approved_by_kmsab.pdf
To sign up to the Kent and Medway Safeguarding Adults Board monthly newsletter visit Kent and Medway SAB – KMSAB Newsletters
