An interview with Dr Deborah Kitson: the long campaign for better safeguarding for people with learning disabilities

Purpose This paper aims to provide a record of the early development of thinking and practice associated with safeguarding adults in the UK. Design/methodology/approach The paper takes the form of a 1:1 interview betwen the author and Dr Deborah Kitson. Findings This interview sheds light on the development of adult safeguarding policy and practice in the UK, particularly how the safeguarding of people with learning disabilities emerged out of early work on the promotion of their rights. It also gives an insight into the work of the Ann Craft Trust, from the pioneering work of Drs Ann Craft and Deborah Kitson to the organisation’s current wide remit in working with organisations and professionals to safeguard adults at risk. Originality/value This is an original interview, as commissioned by Dr Jeremy Dixon.