Safeguarding

Tell us if you’re worried about an adult, even if you are unsure if we need to know. For example, you might think an adult is unsafe or suspect abuse.

How to report your concerns

If you suspect abuse or neglect, follow these steps:

In emergencies call 999 immediately
For non emergencies complete an Adult Safeguarding Concern Form and return it to Lewisham Adult Gateway:
- Phone: Office hours: 020 8314 7777 (Option 1) Out of office hours: 020 8314 7766
- Email: gateway@lewisham.gov.uk

If you need support as a deaf or hearing-impaired individual then contact:

Minicom: 020 8314 3309
Text Message: 07730637194
Glide: LEWISHAM Adult Social Care / 07730 637 194

If you want to make a report anonymously: Contact Crimestoppers UK.

Visit the Lewisham Safeguarding Adults Board concerns reporting page.

Find out what to do if you are worried about a child.

What is safeguarding?

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.

Who is an adult at risk

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

Forms and signs of abuse

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.

Perpetrators 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.

Mental capacity

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.