Protecting Vulnerable Adults
The role of the South Wales Adult Protection Forum
It is not always the case that adults are able to protect and care for themselves. Some adults are particularly vulnerable to abuse and having their basic human rights routinely disregarded. For instance, experience suggests up to 5% of people over 65 and 10% of those with learning difficulties suffer some form of abuse or neglect-for some people abuse is an everyday experience.
The South Wales Adult Protection Forum is made up of local authorities, police, health groups, voluntary and independent sectors and members of the public.
We work together to challenge and combat abuse and promote the rights of vulnerable adults.
There are many forms of abuse including:
- physical
- psychological or emotional
- sexual
- financial
- inappropriate care
- neglect and failure to act
Abuse may be an isolated event or a series of incidents. It may take place in the persons own home, in day or residential centres or in clinics and hospitals.
We believe it is everyone's right to:
- live without fear of violence or harassment
- live without being exposed to exploitation or sexual violence
- live safely in a homely atmosphere without fear of violence from paid staff, service users or carers
- have their money and possessions treated with respect
- receive the full protection of the law
- make choices about their own lives
- have appropriate information about keeping themselves safe
- respect and support when making a complaint or seeking help
- decide in whom to confide
- receive support, counselling, therapy (and redress where possible) if they have been abused.
It is everyone's responsibility to play a part in the protection of vulnerable people.
If you witness abuse or just suspect that abuse is taking place, you must act without delay. If you feel that a criminal act has or may have taken place, you should contact the police immediately.
You can download a copy of the POVA leaflet from our Public Information Catalogue page.
This information can be provided, on request, in other languages and formats (e.g. tape, Braille or easy to read version).
Visit our pages on the left to find out more information on Adult Protection Training, Information for staff, AAPC and our Contact Details.