Synergy Safeguarding is founded and owned by Hazel O’Halloran with over 25 years working with housing associations, local authorities, social care, and charities, from frontline to the Board. Hazel holds significant experience in implementing and embedding safeguarding practices across a range of organisations.

Previously trained as a Specialist Practitioner in Safeguarding Adults whilst working in Adult Social Care, and a Train the Trainer for both children and adults safeguarding.

With a strong background in homelessness, safeguarding & domestic abuse, and community investment, Hazel has a deep understanding of the challenges facing vulnerable people. As an ambassador for social change, she has been involved in commissioning safeguarding audits, managing key risk indicators and governance, enhancing approaches to safeguarding, including learning and development to create a greater understanding of the importance of safeguarding and accountability held by all.

Her efforts for raising awareness of safeguarding & domestic abuse were formally recognised as a winner at the National Housing Awards for ‘Campaign of the Year’.

Drawing on extensive sector experience Hazel is honoured to speak at various conferences, webinars, podcasts, and contributed to academia by delivering modules for a university, sharing sector insights and best practice.

Her experience also extends to being a Non-Executive Director at Brighter Futures housing association specialising in safeguarding, being an Associate for Safeguarding Associates For Excellence (SAFE), as well as voluntary positions as a WISH (Women in Social Housing) Board member, and a mentor for the Housing Diversity Network (HDN).

Hazel is privileged to be able to be bring together both professional expertise and personal lived experience and is very much looking forward to being able to support your organisations and workforces.

Please feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss consultancy or any opportunities - hazel@synergysafeguarding.co.uk