Ceartas

Adult Support and Protection:

Ensuring Support and Preventing Harm

The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 provides ways to offer support and protection to certain adults who may be at risk of harm or neglect.

Who does the Act say is an "adult at risk" of harm?

An "adult at risk" of harm is defined as a person aged 16 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from harm, exploitation or neglect, because of a:

• disability
• mental disorder
• illness
• physical or mental infirmity

What can I do?

If you are worried that you or someone you know is being harmed, it is important to tell someone.

Remember, the person who did this may be doing it to others too. Or it could be that the person who is being harmed may not be able to report it themselves. Even if it happened many years ago, it is still important to report it.

If you are concerened that your own actions towards an adult in your care may be harmful, it is important to ask for support and advice to help deal with this.

What is meant by harm?

Harm is defined as all harmful behaviour. Some examples of this include:

Physical: hitting, slapping, pushing, shaking, locking them in a room, tying them to a chair, restricting their freedom.

Psychological: threats of harm, humiliation, intimidation, causing distress, verbal abuse, bullying, constant criticism, controlling, preventing contact with others.

Neglect: failure to provide medical or physical care, access to a doctor or other services, or denying someone medication, food or heating, privacy or dignity, self neglect.

Financial: stealing, fraud, pressure to hand over or sign over property or money, misuse of property or welfare benefits or stopping someone getting their money or possessions.

Sexual: any sexual activity that a person doesn't understand or want, photographing, sexual harassment, voyeurism.

Information: withholding information or advice about rights and entitlements.

Discrimination: because of age, colour, disability, gender, race, religion, cultural background or sexual orientation.

Who can cause harm?

This can be anyone, including family members and paid staff. And it can happen anywhere e.g. in someone's own home, a care home, day centre or hospital.

People's rights

The Act is about keeping a balance between respecting people's rights and taking action where necessary to support and to protect them.

Everyone has the right to live withour fear of harm, abuse or neglect.

What happens next?

Whatever you tell us will be treated with sensitivity. You will be asked for details about the person you think is at risk of harm and about the person who is harming them. You do not have to give your name but we will have to act on any concern you raise.

We will look very carefully at the situation and help given will depend on the circumstances and wishes of the person involved.

Who should I contact?

Contact the Advice and Response Team, at the Social Work Department on: 0141 355 2200.

You can also speak to a health professional or contact any police office. They will take your concerns seriously.