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What to do if you think an adult is being abused or neglected

Transcript of video

Everybody has the right to live a life that is free from abuse and neglect. Some people need extra help to achieve this. People that need extra help are often described as adults who are vulnerable.

The main types of abuse are physical, sexual, emotional, neglect, discriminatory and financial.

Anybody can abuse. It could be family members, friends, neighbours, staff, volunteers or strangers.

Don’t ignore it. Don’t leave it to someone else to help. Don’t be afraid to voice your concern. In Lewisham, there is a partnership of organisations who work together to protect adults who are vulnerable. So there are many ways you can make your concerns known. This partnership includes the police, voluntary organisations, the Council, health services and others such as care homes.

Everyone who works or volunteers within the partnership organisations knows and respects the rights of vulnerable adults. They have a duty to report any concerns within their organisation and to help you achieve what you want

If you report your concern, you will be taken seriously. If you do not wish to give your name or the name of the vulnerable adult, this will be respected. However, it may limit what can be done.

In an emergency, contact 999. If you think a crime has been committed, contact Lewisham Police on 020 8297 1212.

For other concerns, you can contact the relevant team, some contact details are on this webpage. For a full list of organisations in Lewisham who can help, download the leaflet from this webpage.