If you are unable to protect yourself from being harmed, it is important to tell someone. If you think you know someone who is being harmed, or at risk of being harmed, you must tell someone. Please remember that the person being harmed may not be able to report it themselves.
An Adult at Risk is defined by the Act as someone who:
- is an adult aged 16 or over who is unable to protect themselves from someone harming them, or from exploitation and neglect, or to safeguard their own well-being, property, rights or other interests
- is at risk of harm
- and because they are affected by disability, mental disorder, illness or physical or mental infirmity, is more vulnerable to being harmed than adults who are not so affected
- All three of the above criteria must be met.
Local and national policies and procedures exist which apply whenever abuse is suspected, or has occurred, and where specific action is required by statutory agencies to ensure the protection of the person.
