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Vulnerable Adults Policy
Introduction
The characteristics of adult abuse can take a number of forms and cause victims to suffer pain, fear and distress reaching well beyond the time of the actual incident(s). Victims may be too afraid or embarrassed to raise any complaint. They may be reluctant to discuss their concerns with other people or unsure who to trust or approach with their worries. There may be some situations where victims are unaware that they are being abused or have difficulty in communicating this information to others.
Aim of Policy The aim of this policy is to ensure the safety of vulnerable adults by outlining clear procedures and ensuring that all staff members are clear about their responsibilities.
Definition A vulnerable adult is a person aged 18 years or over who may be unable to take care of themselves or protect themselves from harm or from being exploited. This may include a person who:
What is abuse? Abuse is a violation of an individual's human and civil rights by any other person or persons. It can take a number of forms: • Physical abuse e.g. hitting, pushing, shaking, inappropriate restraint, force-feeding, forcible administration of medication, neglect or abandonment • Sexual abuse e.g. involvement in any sexual activity against his/her will, exposure to pornography, voyeurism and exhibitionism • Emotional/psychological abuse e.g. intimidation or humiliation • Financial abuse e.g. theft or exerting improper pressure to sign over money from pensions or savings etc. • Neglect or acts of omission e.g. being left in wet or soiled clothing, or malnutrition • Discriminatory abuse e.g. racial, sexual or religious harassment • Personal exploitation – involves denying an individual his/her rights or forcing him/her to perform tasks that are against his/her will • Violation of rights e.g. preventing an individual speaking his/her thoughts and opinions • Institutional abuse e.g. failure to provide a choice of meals or failure to ensure privacy or dignity
Reporting Procedures If the allegation or suspicion of abuse is discovered by a student then they should inform a member of staff as soon as possible. The member of staff will then inform the SMT member responsible for adult protection (or in her absence, another member of SMT). A member of staff discovering an allegation or suspicion of abuse will, similarly, report it to the SMT member responsible for adult protection. The member of staff should make a written record of the allegation or suspicion of abuse (see appendix 1) and discuss the situation with the SMT member responsible for adult protection. The SMT member should carry out a risk assessment and contact the local Social Services Team (Bolton) on 01204 336954 .
If a student/staff member has been told about the allegation of abuse in confidence, they should attempt to gain the consent of the student to make a referral to another agency. However, the gaining of the consent is not essential in order for information to be passed on. Consideration needs to be given to:
If there is any doubt about whether or not to report an issue to Social Services then it should be reported. In emergency situations (e.g. where there is the risk or occurrence or severe physical injury), where immediate action is needed to safeguard the health or safety of the individual or anyone else who may be at risk, the emergency services must be contacted. Where a crime is taking place, has just occurred or is suspected, the police must be contacted immediately.
Responsibilities All members of staff have a responsibility to be aware of this policy and to report any suspicions that they might have concerning adult abuse. The SMT member responsible for adult protection is Dr Ghulam Sarwar
CRB Checks All newly recruited staff who have contact with students are CRB checked (since 2003). Certain groups of staff (e.g. Student Services) will be CRB checked if they were recruited before 2003. Learner Support Workers will be CRB checked every 3 years.
Contacts Social Services – 01204 336954
Legislation This policy is informed by, and adheres, to the Bolton Multi-Agency Adult Protection Policy and Procedures, and to the following legislation:
NHS and Community Care Act 1990 Mental Health Act 1983 Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 Care Standards Act 2000
Hibbert Street, Bolton, BL1 8JG......Tel: 01204 365037
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