The Scottish Borders Public Protection Committee is supporting this year's Adult Support and Protection Day on 20 February.
Throughout the Borders, there are some adults who are more at risk from harm, due to illness, trauma and physical or mental health conditions. The Committee is urging residents 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.
Signs of harm
This year, we are being asked to be particulary alert to adults in their communities who are susceptible to financial harm. Financial harm can cover theft, fraud, and pressure to sign over property or money. It also relates to rogue traders, online scammers, and misuse of benefits.
Other forms of harm to look out for include physical, psychological, or sexual harm and neglect or self-neglect.
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.
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 than ever to keep your eyes open for signs of harm.
“Everyone has a role to play in keeping those in their communities safe, so I would encourage anyone who has seen something that worries them to please say something.”
More information
- To find out more about the advice, information, and support that’s available, visit the adult protection pages of our website. To speak to someone directly, contact Customer Advice and Support Services on 0300 100 1800 or out of office hours on 01896 752111.
- The Council’s Domestic Abuse Advocacy Support service provides 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. More information on support if you are experiencing domestic abuse is available on our domestic abuse webpages.
- Alternatively, you can contact the Police on 101 or call 999 if you believe the person is in immediate danger.
Public Protection Services are provided by a partnership comprising of staff from ourSocial Work team, NHS Borders, Police Scotland, and Third Sector colleagues.