Adult Abuse

Many people associate adult abuse with frail, older people. But a vulnerable adult can be anyone over the age of 18, including those people with a physical or learning disability or a mental health problem and may be unable to protect themselves from abuse or harm.

Abuse is any behaviour towards a person that causes him or her harm, endangers life or violates their rights. It can be physical, sexual, psychological, financial, neglect or discrimination.

The abuser can be anyone with access to the person concerned.

Within Norfolk, local authorities, police, the health service and the National Care Standards Commission work together to try to prevent abuse occuring and to stop it when it does happen. Information about adult abuse and the Norfolk system is available at www.norfolk.gov.uk/social/adultprotection.

If you know a person you believe is at risk, take action:

• Report your suspicions to an appropriate agency - refer to the website above.
• You can also pick up a leaflet from North Norfolk District Council's reception at the main Cromer office. This will also give you contact details for agencies and helplines.

Most importantly, respect the potential victim's right to privacy and discuss it only with people that need to know.