Summer 2010

Help for those at risk

Scottish Borders was the first local authority area in Scotland to establish an independent Adult Protection Committee. It has overseen the introduction of the new legislation as well as delivering training to help staff understand the new powers. 

The Adult Protection Unit received 113 referrals during the last year.

The Act states that an ‘adult at risk’ is someone over 16 who may be:

 

  • unable to safeguard his or her own wellbeing, property, rights or other interests

  • at risk of harm because he or she is affected by disability, mental disorder, illness or physical or mental infirmity

  • more vulnerable to being harmed than adults who are not so affected.

Adults at risk may experience physical, psychological, sexual or financial harm.

 

For more information

If you are concerned about someone you know and think they are being harmed please call 0300 100 1800 or, out of office hours, telephone 01896 755211.