Safeguarding Adults All adults have the right to be safe from harm and should be able to live free from fear of abuse, neglect and exploitation. Vulnerable adults are being physically, psychologically, financially or sexually abused, discriminated against or neglected by others - every day. Every day there are people who witness this and say or do nothing.
What is Abuse? Any action or omission that harms another person - it can be: • The result of single or repeated acts • Accidental or as the result of lack of knowledge or understanding
Who is a Vulnerable Adult? Someone: • 18 years or older • In need of extra support because they are elderly, have a learning difficulty, physical disability, sensory impairment or mental health need and is or may be unable to take care of themselves or protect themselves from harm.
What forms can abuse take? • Physical – hitting slapping, punching, burning, pushing, kicking, locking someone in a room, threatening to harm some one
• Against the law
• Psychological –shouting, swearing, bullying, taunting, humiliating or ignoring someone, making them feel frightened or afraid
The effects of abuse on the victim are the same, whatever the intention of the perpetrator.
• Sexual – forcing someone to take part in a sexual act against their will, inappropriate touching
• Done with intent to harm
40
