Introduction

The wellbeing and safety of local people is our main concern.

We adopt a zero-tolerance stance on the abuse, neglect or discrimination of any person, but particularly people at risk or in vulnerable situations.

Adults at risk

An adult at risk is anyone aged 18 and over who:

• has needs for care and support
• is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect
• and is unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation

If you worried about someone

If you are worried about a vulnerable adult, please don’t stay silent:

What will happen next

If you report concerns because you suspect that a vulnerable adult is being abused, or you are being abused yourself:

• You will be listened to and your concerns will be taken seriously.
• Your concerns will be looked into fully and fairly.
• You will be involved in decision-making. Trained staff will work with you to stop the abuse and agree with you on steps to protect you from further harm.
• You will get advice about the help and support available.

To help us respond to your concerns it is important for us to know what you, or the person experiencing the abuse, want to happen next.

Our work with you will focus on what is important to you, what you wish to achieve and in what way we can help to keep you safe.

There are times when we will need to share information with partner organisations to help improve your safety and well-being.

Mental Health Crisis Support

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing a mental health crisis you can find information on the different types of support that are available on the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust website.

Dementia Safeguarding Scheme (Herbert Protocol)

The Dementia Safeguarding Scheme (Herbert Protocol) is a national scheme encouraging carers, family and friends to provide useful information that can be used in the event of a vulnerable person going missing.

The information is captured in a form and is used by the police to help locate vulnerable individuals. Information captured includes:

• Medication required
• Mobile numbers
• Previous addresses and employer details
• Places the person has previously been found at
• A photograph

Providing these details in advance means:

• You do not need to remember vital information if you need to report a missing person. This helps to reduce your stress at an already anxious time.
• We are aware of any locations an individual may have gone to so we can start our search sooner. Often those with dementia return to meaningful locations such as childhood homes or places of work.

You can find out more about the protocol, including how to register for it via Avon and Somerset Police – Herbert Protocol.