Norfolk – united against adult abuse

2,709 safeguarding adult concerns were raised between April 2015 and March 2016 in Norfolk. Often the abuse is carried out by someone known to the person who is being harmed. 

Adults can suffer from all sorts of abuse - physical, emotional, financial and sexual - when people who are there to help do not look after others properly, or people put themselves at risk through neglect. The individual causing the harm may be a stranger but, sadly, it is often someone they know and usually feel safe with, often in a position of trust and power, such as a health or care professional, a family member or relative or neighbour. The person needing support may feel uncomfortable, afraid or hurt in the situation.

So look out for the signs of abuse.  These can include someone who looks unkempt, is not dressed properly or has an injury that is difficult to explain. Other signs can include seeming frightened around certain people, or withdrawn.

Trust your instinct – if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.  Even if you’re not sure whether these signs mean abuse, you should still report it. Call 0344 800 8020, text 07767 647670 or click here. In an emergency call the police.  Visit norfolk.gov.uk/speakup or the Norfolk Safeguarding Adults Board for more information.

There are 5 positive actions you can take to support adult safeguarding in your community.

1. Make sure 3 friends / colleagues know how to make an adult safeguarding referral
2. Ask your local shop / business, community centre to display a poster
3. Sign up by emailing nsabchair@norfolk.gov.uk to receive email alerts
4. Sign up to Friends Against Scams
5. Check that your organisation is represented at your locality Safeguarding Adult Partnership.

Norfolk has five Localities Safeguarding Adults Partnerships operating at local level. Click here for details. This is your chance to get involved.