The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 was introduced to protect Adults at risk of harm. Harm or abuse can take many forms including physical, emotional, financial or sexual abuse. It could also include neglect and acts of omission.
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Who is an adult at risk of harm?
An adult (any individual aged 16 or over) who:
- Is unable to safeguard their own well-being, property, rights or other interests
- Is at risk of harm
- Is affected by disability, mental disorder, illness of physical or mental infirmity, and is more vulnerable to being harmed than adults who are not so affected.
An adult is at risk of harm in relation to the above if:
- Another person's conduct is causing (or is likely to cause) the adult to be harmed
- The adult is engaging (or is likely to engage) in conduct, which causes (or is likely to cause) self harm.
How might I know if an adult is at risk of harm?
There are a number of ways this might come to light. For example, a statement or comment by the adult themselves, or by their carer or someone else, disclosing or suggesting abuse or neglect. This would invariably warrant further action whether relating to a specific incident, a pattern of events or a more general situation.
Many other factors could indicate abuse or neglect including:
- Symptoms including unusual, unexplained or suspicious injury; unexplained loss of weight; or increased confusion
- Living with another member of the household known to police, social work or health as likely to present a risk; demonstration of fear of another person within the home
- Difficulty interviewing the adult alone due to the insistence or presence of another
- Unexplained debts or reduction in assets may be indicators of financial abuse.
What can I do?
If you are worried that you or someone you know is being harmed, is suffering from neglect, or is being abused, it is important to tell someone. Everyone has a right to be safe.
Who should I contact?
For anyone wishing to report an adult at risk or look for advice there are local contacts who can assist you. You can also speak to a health professional or the police. They will take your concerns seriously.
More information
More information is available on the Scottish Government website and the Info Scotland website.
A leaflet called Adult Support and Protection: Ensuring Support and Preventing Harm is also available. There is also an advert which provides more information.
This leaflet is also available in the following languages:
Adult Protection Conference
To mark the completion of the first year of the new legislation, Glasgow Adult Protection Committee held a Conference in the City Chambers on 30 October 2009.