We are committed to preventing the abuse of adults and responding promptly when abuse is suspected.

Read the Adult Protection Policy & Procedures for Bournemouth, Poole and Dorset. 

What do we mean by abuse?

Abuse is when someone does something to another person which damages their quality of life or puts them at risk of harm. Abuse can happen once or repeatedly. It may be deliberate or caused by ignorance.

Which adults may be at risk of abuse?

Some people over 18 years of age may be more at risk than others including:

• people who depend on others for their care
• older people who are dependent on others
• people with mental health problems
• people with learning or physical disabilities
• people with sight or hearing impairment or loss
• people with dementia
• people who misuse substances
• people with long term health needs.

Who can abuse?

Anyone can be an abuser but it is usually someone known to the person. 

Where does it happen?

Abuse can happen anywhere. At home, in a care home, hospital or day centre, in a public place.

Types of abuse

Abuse can take many forms and may include:

• Physical
  Hitting or injuring on purpose. Restraining someone inappropriately.
• Emotional
  Intimidating, threatening or humiliating. Abusing racially, verbally or psychologically. Exploiting
• Sexual
  Involving a person in a sexual activity which is unwanted or not understood. Giving unwanted sexual attention.
• Sensory deprivation
  Misusing, overdosing or withholding medication.
• Neglect/deprivation
  Not providing food, clothing, attention or care. Withholding aids or equipment for continence, walking, hearing or sight. Putting someone at risk of infection. Failing to provide access to appropriate health or social care.
• Imposed isolation/confinement
  Refusing someone the company of others either at home or outside.
• Financial/material
  Stealing or misusing money, property or possesions. Pressure in connection with wills, property or inheritance
• Discriminatory
  Treating someone less favourably and unfairly because of race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, disability or sexual orientation.

Self inflicted injury may be a sign that abuse is taking place.

What you should do if someone tells you they are being abused

DO

• Stay calm and listen to them
• Take what you are being told seriously
• Offer support to help them stop the abuse happening
• Be aware that medical or other evidence might be needed, so keep the evidence safe
• Write down what you have been told
• Contact Community Care Services or the Police  

DO NOT

• Press the person for more details (these can be taken later)
• Assume that someone else is aware of the situation and will take action
• Contact the alleged abuser
• Promise to keep it a secret
• Be afraid to contact Community Care Services ot the Police to discuss it.

If you are being abused or suspect someone is being abused

Contact Community Care Services or the Police. Or ask someone you trust to contact them for you.

If you think someone may be at immediate risk of harm contact the police by calling 999.