Suspected abuse of a vulnerable adult

We believe that every adult has the right to be treated with dignity, have their choices respected and live a life free from fear and intimidation.

Some adults are less able to protect themselves than others, and some have difficulty making their wishes and feelings known. This may make them vulnerable to abuse.

Abuse may be:

• Physical or sexual
• Involve people taking money or property without permission
• Not looking after someone properly
• Bullying or humiliating
• Not allowing contact with friends and family

Abuse can be the result of a single act or may continue over months or years, abuse can be accidental, or a deliberate act. The result on the victim is the same.

Who abuses adults?

Anyone can be an abuser - relatives, partners, people paid to provide care and services, volunteers, neighbours, friends or strangers.

Most abusers are people close to the adult, who are loved and trusted by them. However some people will deliberately abuse adults they see as an easy target.

Where does abuse take place?

Abuse can occur anywhere: people can be abused at home, in care/nursing homes, day centres, or any place the adult should be safe.

What do I do if I suspect abuse is happening?

You may be concerned about adult abuse because someone has told you something. You may have seen or heard something that makes you feel uncomfortable or uneasy about the care of an adult. If so, please contact us or the police if you think a crime has been committed.

Who can help?

Rochdale Council Adult Care Service has a responsibility to take your concerns seriously; they will listen to you and help to stop any abuse.

You can contact us online or by telephone

Useful Contacts

These contacts include links to external websites:

Access & Enablement Service
Address: Floor 2, Brook House, Oldham Road, Middleton, Manchester, M24 1AY
Phone: 0844 264 0867
Fax: 0845 833 9004
Web: http://mycare.rochdale.gov.uk
Email: social.services@rochdale.gov.uk

Emergency Social Work Team (Out of hours)
Phone: 0845 1212975

Greater Manchester Police (GMP)
Phone: 0161 872 5050 - in an emergency please ring 999
Web: www.gmp.police.uk