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.
Links:
Contact details
Bournemouth Community Care Services (social services for adults)
Bournemouth Care Direct
Town Hall Annexe, St. Stephen’s Road
Bournemouth BH2 6EA