Third Party Harassment: A practical briefing for adult social care providers

The strengthening of legal protections against third-party harassment, which came into effect on 30 October 2026, represents an important development for the sector. It reinforces the need for providers to take proactive and proportionate steps to prevent harassment and to respond effectively when incidents occur, ensuring that staff feel confident to raise concerns.

We recognise, however, that adult social care operates in complex environments. Behaviour may sometimes be associated with a person’s health, disability, cognitive impairment, communication needs or distress. Providers must navigate these circumstances carefully, balancing their responsibility to protect employees with their duty to deliver safe care.

These responsibilities are not mutually exclusive. Supporting people who draw on care and support must go hand in hand with creating safe working environments for the people who provide that care.

This briefing has been developed to help Care England members understand the strengthened legal framework and consider what it means in practice. It sets out the key changes, explores scenarios specific to adult social care and identifies practical steps providers can take to strengthen their policies, risk assessments, reporting arrangements and support for staff.

Access the briefing here.