Throughout the Scottish Borders, there are some adults who are more at risk from harm, due to illness, trauma and physical or mental health conditions.
On Adult Support and Protection Day (20 February), the Scottish Borders Public Protection Committee is urging everyone to look out for signs of harm and report any concerns, ensuring those at risk can receive the help and support they need to live safely.
As well as physical, psychological, financial or sexual harm, individuals can also be at risk through neglect or self-neglect. Additionally, adults may find themselves dependent on alcohol and/or other drugs and lose awareness of the situation they are living in - or the consequences of decisions they make.
Harm can happen anywhere - in someone’s home, where they work, or in a public place - and is often caused by the people closest to them.
It’s important to speak up about any concerns you have, as the person may not be able to do so themselves.
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 support and protect adults at risk from harm so they are enabled to live their lives as safely and independently as possible.
“Adult Support and Protection Day is an opportunity for us to raise awareness not only of the work we do and the support that is available, but also as a reminder that everyone has a responsibility to look out for and report any concerns they may have. If you’re worried that someone is at risk of harm or neglect from others - or harming or neglecting themselves – remember that they may not be able to report it themselves. Please don’t let someone suffer in silence - if you see something, say something.”
Brenda Walker, National Adult Support and Protection Coordinator for Scotland
“It can be difficult to know what to do when you’re worried about someone, and you might feel that you don’t want to interfere. However, reporting your concerns could really help to keep someone safe and turn their life around.
“The ongoing cost of living crisis is making it even more difficult for those who are looking after others, or struggling to take care of themselves, so it’s more important right now than ever to keep your eyes open for signs of harm.
“Everyone has a role to play in keeping those in our communities safe, so I would encourage anyone who has seen something that worries them to please say something.”
Support is available
If you’re worried that someone is at risk of harm or neglect, find out more about the support that's available on our Adult Support and Protection pages. To speak to someone directly, contact Customer Advice and Support Services on 0300 100 1800 or out of office hours on 01896 752111.
Our Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support service provide free and confidential specialist support to any adult over the age of 16 living in the Borders who is either experiencing domestic abuse or has experienced this in the past.
Alternatively, you can contact the Police on 101, or call 999 if you believe the person is in immediate danger.
For more information about the advice, guidance and support that is available nationally, visit the Act Against Harm website.
More information
Public Protection Services are provided by a partnership comprising of staff from Social Work, NHS Borders, Police Scotland and Third Sector colleagues.