What is adult abuse and how to report concerns

Find out who is at risk of abuse and how to report concerns.

Who is an adult at risk of harm?

An adult at risk of harm is defined as someone aged 18 or over who may have needs for care and support, and is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect and is unable to protect themselves.

What is abuse and neglect?

Abuse and neglect happens in lots of different ways, for example:

1. when someone hurts or treats another person badly
2. when someone does things to upset or frighten people
3. when someone ignores medical or physical care needs. 

Abuse and neglect can happen anywhere. Adults with care and support needs could be abused by anyone, including a partner, family member, neighbour, friend, health or social care professional, volunteer or a stranger.

What can I do if I am being abused or I am worried that someone else is?

Report concerns if you're worried about an adult at risk. 

The digital leaflets and posters below provide more information on the different types of abuse, the safeguarding process and how to report concerns about an adult.

Useful information

You can download and share the digital leaflets and posters attached below. If you would like printed promotional material sending out to you, please send us an email.