An 'adult at risk' of harm is defined as a person aged 16 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from harm, exploitation or neglect, because of a:

• disability
• mental disorder
• illness
• physical or mental infirmity.

Harm is defined as all harmful behaviour. Some examples of this include:

• Physical:hitting, slapping, pushing, shaking, locking someone in a room, tying someone to a chair, restricting their freedom.
• Psychological:threats of harm, humiliation, intimidation, causing distress, verbal abuse, bullying, constant criticism, controlling, preventing contact with others.
• Neglect:failure to provide medical or physical care, access to a doctor or other services, or denying someone medication, food or heating, privacy or dignity.
• Financial:stealing, fraud, pressure to hand over or sign over property or money, misuse of property or welfare benefits, or stopping someone getting their money or possessions.
• Sexual:any sexual activity that an adult doesn't understand or want, photographing, sexual harassment, voyeurism.
• Self-Harm and Neglect: this covers a wide range of behaviours ranging from the adult’s neglect of their own personal hygiene, health or home to cutting themselves, overdosing or attempting suicide.
• Information:withholding information or advice about rights or entitlements.
• Discrimination:because of age, colour, disability, gender, race, religion, cultural background or sexual orientation.

This can be anyone, including family members and paid staff. And it can happen anywhere, eg in someone’s own home, a care home, day centre or hospital.

Whatever you tell us will be treated with sensitivity. You will be asked for details about the adult you think is at risk of harm and about the person who is harming them. You do not have to give your name but we will have to act on any concerns you raise. We will look very carefully at the situation and the help given will depend on the circumstances and wishes of the adult involved.