Reporting a Concern

This page has been developed to help you understand how vulnerable adults can be safeguarded from abuse.

Relatives, neighbours and members of the public all have a resonsibility to take action if the safety or welfare of a vulnerable adult is causing them concern.  Anyone can alert...you can do this by contacting Adult Social Care and Health or the Police.

What is abuse or mistreatment?

physical

including hitting, slapping, punching

sexual

including rape and sexual assault acts to which the person has not consented

psychological

including threats and humiliation

financial or material

tricking the person out of money or possessions

neglect

is also a form of abuse - leaving someone without food, heating or refusing to take care of personal needs.

what do you mean by a vulnerable adult?

A vulnerable adult is a person who is or may be in need of extra support because they are elderly or may have a learning disability, physical disability, sensory impairment or mental health problem and who is or may be unable to take care of themselves or unable to protect themselves against harm.

what will happen to the vulnerable adult after I have reported a suspected case of abuse?

Nottinghamshire have procedures and guidance for staff working with vulnerable adults to follow.  We will aim to make sure the abuse stops and does not happen again.  We will work with the vulnerable adults to determine what the best course of action is and inform them of any action taken.

will it be confidential?

Information will be treated as confidential.  There may be occasions when some information will need to be shared when it is in the best interest of a vulnerable person, or the protection of the general public.

who do I contact?

If you are being abused, you don't have to put up with it.  Tell someone you trust or call 08449 80 80 80 and report what is happening to you.  Remember, if it's an emergency, dial 999.

If someone you know is being abused, or you have a concern that they may be, you should first make sure that they're safe if it's possible to do so.  You should then report your concern.  you can do this by calling Nottinghamshire County Council on 08449 80 80 80.

 Remember, if it's an emergency, diall 999.