Safeguarding Adults Newsletter - June 2009 : Cumbria County Council

Did you know that one in forty people over 65, living in private households experienced mistreatment (neglect or abuse) from a family member, carer or neighbour during the last 12 months? This is based on research figures from the largest study of adult abuse conducted in England and Wales. However, it is believed that such cases are rarely reported so the real numbers could be far higher.

In Cumbria, 298 cases of adult abuse and neglect were reported last year but we think this could be only the tip of the iceberg.

Adult abuse and neglect can happen anywhere but adults are most at risk in their own homes. People with learning disabilities and those aged over 65 experience the majority of abuse. Although there is specific legislation to protect children and animals from abuse and neglect, there is no law protecting adults as yet. There is, however, a great deal of pressure to introduce such legislation and the Government are currently considering this. For more information see the Action on Elder Abuse website

Cumbria County Council, the Police, NHS and all the other partners on the Cumbria Safeguarding Adults Board are working together to enable all adults in Cumbria, who are or may be eligible for community care services, to live a life free from abuse and neglect and retain independence, well being and choice. Abuse and neglect can only be reduced if awareness is raised and people feel confident to raise their concerns.

Abuse may be physical, emotional, financial, sexual, discriminatory or institutional. The Safeguarding Adults Multi Agency Policy and Procedures (PDF 790kb) provide more information on what to look for and what to do if abuse or neglect is suspected, witnessed or disclosed. The Cumbria Safeguarding Adult Board has also produced a range of leaflets and posters for the public and professionals. You can download and display these or request hard copies from us. We are eager to get this information distributed as widely as possible.

The recent Mid Staffordshire Hospitals case highlighted widespread institutional abuse which had not been reported as abuse. It was only uncovered when the Healthcare Commission queried unreasonably high mortality rates. The organisation Public Concern at Work

offer confidential advice and information on 0207 4046 609 to ‘whistle blowers’ and anyone concerned about malpractice in the workplace.

Cumbria County Council’s Safeguarding Adults Team offer advice, information and consultation to practitioners and managers and deal with queries from the public, outside agencies and the voluntary sector on safeguarding issues. We can be contacted on 01539 713398 or by email at safeguardingteam@cumbriacc.gov.uk.

Members of the Cumbria Safeguarding Adults Board are committed to Zero Tolerance of adult abuse and neglect and undertake to provide training to their staff and volunteers, about the signs and indicators of potential abuse and what they should do if they witness or are informed of any abuse or neglect. Cumbria County Council Safeguarding Team has also recently provided training to some housing association, residential home, day care and voluntary sector employees and volunteers. These staff and volunteers have a crucial role in improving services for adults in Cumbria and are in a unique position to be able to raise concerns of potential abuse or neglect.

Safeguarding adults in Cumbria is everyone’s business and we need your help to reduce abuse and neglect. Please circulate and display the public leaflets and posters, anywhere you can, to help us raise awareness.