We're supporting Adult Support and Protection Awareness Day by encouraging everyone to look out for and act on any concerns they may have about vulnerable adults they suspect are at risk of harm.
Held annually on 20 February, the day is an opportunity to draw attention to the risk of neglect, self-neglect, self-harm, physical, psychological, financial or sexual harm for some adults who may be unable to safeguard themselves.
The particular focus this year is neglect or self-neglect, which can occur when someone is not being cared for properly, either by themselves or by someone responsible for them.
Alan Small, Chair of Scottish Borders Public Protection Committee
“Here in the Borders, our multi-agency Public Protection Services are committed to working together to make sure people know that abuse in any form is wrong, that support is available and that everyone has a responsibility to look out for and report any concerns they may have.
“Adult Support and Protection Day is an opportunity for us to raise awareness not only of the work we do but also as a reminder to anyone who is at risk of harm that help and support is available. Advice and information is also available for anyone who has concerns that an adult may be at risk.”
Brenda Walker, National Adult Support and Protection Coordinator
“It’s sometimes hard to see when someone is struggling to manage, or you might feel you don’t want to interfere. Sharing your concern is the right thing to do and can allow support to be offered. Right now, many people are finding it even more difficult, and the cost of living crisis is making already challenging situations worse.
“If you’re worried that someone isn’t taking care of themselves, or those they look after, or is doing things that might put their safety at risk, contact your local social work team, alert the Police on 101, or 999 if there is immediate danger.”
More information
To find out more, visit the Adult Protection pages of our website. You can also speak to someone directly by contacting:
- Customer Advice and Support - 0300 100 1800 or out of office hours 01896 752111
- Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support Service - 01835 825024 or daas@scotborders.gov.uk
In an emergency call 999.
For more information about the advice, guidance and support that is available nationally, visit the Act Against Harm website.
Joint Adult Support and Protection Inspection
Public Protection Services are provided by a partnership comprising of staff from Social Work, NHS Borders, Police Scotland and Third Sector colleagues. In 2022 the service received a positive report from the Care Inspectorate on how they work together to support and protect adults at risk of harm in the Scottish Borders. You can read the full report on our website.