Keeping people safe
We work closely with our partners to identify and prevent the abuse of adults at risk. Some adults may be unable to protect themselves from harm resulting in their quality of life being damaged. Abuse may be a one-off or can go on for longer periods. It can happen anywhere. It may be deliberate or it may be unintentional.
What does abuse mean?
Abuse takes many forms. It includes:
- hitting, injuring or restraining people
- threatening, intimidating or humiliating behaviour
- unwanted sexual attention or activity
- not giving the correct medicine, care or food or clothing
- keeping someone on their own
- stealing or misusing money or property
Treating someone less favourably because of race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, disability or sexual orientation is against the law.
Who might be at risk of abuse?
Some adults may be more at risk than others, including:
- people who depend on others for their care, including older people, and those with long term health needs
- people with mental health problems, learning disabilities or physical disabilities
- people with dementia
- people who misuse substances
- people with long-term health needs
Reporting abuse
Social Care and the police will then coordinate investigations into alleged abuse If you think or know someone is being abused, contact as soon as possible:
Bournemouth Care Direct: tel 01202 454979, email caredirect@bournemouth.gov.uk
Poole Helpdesk: tel 01202 633902
Dorset Helpdesk: 01305 221016
Out of hours (evenings and weekends) 01202 657279
or Dorset Police: tel 101
In an emergency please call 999
