Safeguarding Adults and Children

What is abuse?

Abuse is something that is done to another person, without their full understanding or consent that harms them in some way. It may consist of a single act or repeated acts.

Abuse can include one or more of the following:

Physical abuse

Includes hitting, pinching, deliberately giving too much medication or physically restraining someone in an inappropriate way. For example being locked in or force-fed.

Financial abuse

Includes taking another person’s money or possessions. For example having money or property stolen, being pressured into giving people money or changing a will, misuse of benefits, not being allowed access to money.

Sexual abuse

Includes any sexual act to which the adult at risk has not consented or may not understand. For example being touched or kissed when it is not wanted, being made to touch or kiss someone else, being raped, being made to listen to sexual comments or forced to look at sexual acts or materials.

Psychological abuse

Can happen when someone is isolated, verbally abused or threatened.

Discriminating abuse

Includes any type of abuse aimed at adult at risk because of their colour, religion, appearance or sexuality. For example, ignoring spiritual or religious beliefs, comments or jokes about a person’s disability, age, race, sexual orientation, or gender/ gender identity, ignoring cultural needs, for example diet or clothing.

Institutional abuse

Is abuse occurring in a social or health care establishment that may range from poor practice to ill treatment and gross misconduct. For example lack of individual care, no flexibility of betimes, or waking, deprived environment and lack of stimulation.

Domestic abuse

Refers to any incident(s) of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.

Abuse of trust

Refers to those who are considered particularly vulnerable to exploitation by those who hold a position of trust or authority in their lives.

If you or others have concerns about the welfare of a adult, you must report it immediately. For information, advice or assistance please contact the Adult Safeguarding Team.

Contact us

Child Care Assessment Team: 01437 776444

Adult Safeguarding Team: 01437 776056

Social Services out of Hours: 0300 333 2222

Police

In an emergency ring 999

Non-emergency: 101 

Dewis Cymru (opens in a new tab) is the place to go if you want information or advice about your well-being – or want to know how you can help somebody else.