Who might be an adult at risk of harm?
An adult at risk of harm is someone who is not able to care for or protect themselves from harm and exploitation. It might be because of their age, mental or physical incapacity, sensory loss, or physical or learning disabilities.
It might be someone who is usually able to manage but is unable to do so because of an accident or illness.
Some may find it hard to get the help and support they need to stop the abuse.
An adult at risk of harm may also neglect themselves or deliberately harm themselves.
Abuse and neglect may:
- be an act which goes against your human rights
- be a single act or repeated acts
- happen in any relationship
- result in harm
- take advantage of someone's vulnerability