Safeguarding - concern for an adult

Safeguarding is about protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect. Every adult has the right to be treated with dignity, respect, and to live a life free of fear.

While all adults have the right to make their own decisions and take risks, some are at greater risk of harm due to their reliance on others for day-to-day living. The term "adult at risk" refers to individuals who may require support to protect themselves from abuse or neglect.

Under the Care Act 2014, an 'adult at risk' is defined as someone who:

• is aged 18 or older
• has care and support needs
• is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect
• is unable to protect themselves as a result of their care and support needs

Who is at risk?

People with care and support needs, such as older people or individuals with disabilities, are more likely to be abused or neglected. Some individuals with communication difficulties or cognitive impairments may be unable to identify or report abuse.

Forms of abuse

Abuse can take many forms, including:

• physical abuse
• sexual abuse
• psychological or emotional abuse
• financial or material abuse
• neglect or acts of omission
• discriminatory abuse
• domestic abuse
• modern slavery
• self-neglect

Signs of abuse

Possible indicators of abuse may include:

• unexplained injuries or bruises
• changes in mood, such as fear, anxiety, or withdrawal
• financial inconsistencies, like missing money or unpaid bills
• poor hygiene or unsafe living conditions

Find detailed information on the forms and signs of abuse.

Abuse can be committed by anyone, including:

• family members, partners, or friends
• neighbours or members of the community
• paid carers, volunteers, or professionals
• strangers

Abuse often occurs where there is an imbalance of power, and the person causing harm may also be experiencing mental ill-health or substance misuse.

Learn more about perpetrators on the Lewisham Safeguarding Adults Board website.

Some people may not be able to make decisions themselves, the mental capacity act helps protect people by providing a legal framework to ensure rights and needs of the person are respected. Find out about the mental capacity act and what it covers.

If you suspect abuse or neglect, follow these steps:

• in emergencies: call 999 immediately if someone is in immediate danger
• complete the adult safeguarding concern form and return it to Lewisham Adult Gateway
• contact Lewisham Adult Gateway directly: phone (Office hours) 020 8314 7777 and select option 1 or (Out of hours) 020 8314 7766, fax: 020 8314 3014 or email: gateway@lewisham.gov.uk
• support for deaf or hearing-impaired individuals: Minicom: 020 8314 3309, text message: 07730 637 194
• Glide: LEWISHAM Adult Social Care / 07730 637 194
• contact Crimestoppers UK to report anonymously

Once a report is made:

• the organisation will ensure the person’s immediate safety
• appropriate steps will be taken to assess and respond to the concerns
• the case will be treated seriously and confidentially

Learn more about what happens after you make a report.

Preventing abuse is a shared responsibility. Everyone can help by raising awareness and supporting safeguarding measures.

Learn more about prevention on the Lewisham Safeguarding Adults Board website.