Who does safeguarding apply to?
Under the Care Act 2014, safeguarding duties apply to adults who:
- have care and support needs (whether or not the council is meeting those needs)
- are experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect
- are unable to protect themselves because of their care and support needs
An “adult at risk” is someone who may need care and support due to age, disability or illness and who may be at risk of harm.
What is abuse and neglect?
Safeguarding means protecting a person’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. It involves people and organisations working together to prevent harm and promote wellbeing.
Types of abuse
Abuse can take many forms, including:
- physical abuse – hitting, burning, pushing or restraining someone
- sexual abuse – unwanted touching, forcing someone to have sex or sexual acts that feel uncomfortable or wrong or exposure to sexual content
- financial or material abuse – taking money or possessions without permission or in a way they are unhappy with, pressuring someone to change their will
- modern slavery – human trafficking, forced labour or domestic slavery
- organisational abuse – poor care in settings like care homes or hospitals, or care provided in someone's own home
- neglect and acts of omission – failing to take good care of someone, for example refusing to help someone get food, keep warm and safe or see their doctor
- self-neglect – not caring for personal hygiene, health or surroundings (for example hoarding)
- psychological abuse – threats, isolation or emotional manipulation
- discriminatory abuse – unfair treatment based on age, disability, gender, race, religion or sexuality
- domestic abuse – physical, emotional, sexual or financial abuse by a partner or family member, including so-called ‘honour-based’ violence
Who might be an abuser?
Anyone can be an abuser, including:
- family members, partners, friends or neighbours
- other service users
- strangers
- health or care workers
- carers or volunteers
Signs of abuse or neglect
It’s not always easy to spot abuse, but signs may include:
- unexplained bruises, fingermarks or injuries
- sudden weight loss or poor health
- inappropriate or inadequate clothing
- changes in behaviour or withdrawal
- fear of being alone with a particular person
- missing money or possessions
Where can abuse happen?
Abuse can happen anywhere, including:
- in someone’s own home or a carer’s home
- care homes or supported living
- hospitals
- public places
- workplaces, colleges or universities