Concerns as a member of the public
Adult abuse happens every day. You may be aware of it, but don’t know what to do about it.
n the context of the legislation, specific adult safeguarding duties apply to any adult who:
- has care and support needs and
- is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect and
- is unable to protect themselves because of their care and support needs.
An adult with care and support needs may be:
- an older person
- a person with a physical disability, a learning difficulty or a sensory impairment
- someone with mental health needs, including dementia or a personality disorder
- a person with a long-term health condition
- someone who misuses substances or alcohol to the extent that it affects their ability to manage day-to-day living.
People with care and support needs are not inherently vulnerable, but they may come to be at risk of abuse or neglect at any point due to:
- physical or mental ill-health
- becoming disabled
- getting older
- not having support networks
- inappropriate accommodation
- financial circumstances or
- being socially isolated.
Topics
Safeguarding Journey
Contacts
You should call 101 to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response.
When should I use 101?
Use 101 to report crimes and concerns such as:
- Your car has been stolen
- Your property has been damaged
- You suspect drug use or dealing in your neighbourhood
Or to:
- Give the police information about crime in your area
- Speak to the police about a general enquiry
You should always call 999 when it is an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, someone suspected of a crime is nearby, when there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.