Safeguarding
"Social care has an important role in the protection of members of the public before harm has happened and after it has happened "

ABUSE
Abuse of the elderly is on the rise.It is estimated that the number of cases referred for investigation by councils in
England rose from 108,000 in 2011/2012, to 112,000 in
2012/2013.(bbc.co.uk) It is important to understand the different types of abuse and what to look out for.
There are many forms of abuse these include:
•

Physical

Institutional

•
•
•

Sexual
Emotional/psychological
Financial

Self Neglect
Neglect by others

ABUSE
Physical Abuse:

Sexual Abuse:

Sexual abuse refers to the act of coercing
Physical abuse is the act of any or forcing someone to be involved in intentional bodily harm. This can any sexual activity in which they do range from a Scratch, to a pinch, not want to do. a slap, a kick or Strangling.

Signs and Symptoms
Multiple bruising
Fractures
Burns
Bed sores
Fear
Depression
Unexplained weight loss
Assault (can be intentional or reckless) Flinching at things being raised

Signs and Symptoms

Loss of sleep
Unexpected or unexplained change in behaviour Bruising
Soreness around the genitals
Torn, stained or bloody underwear/ sheets
A preoccupation with anything sexual
Sexually transmitted diseases
Pregnancy
Depression
Indecent Assault

Financial Abuse:
Financial abuse is the act of defrauding or stealing someones property/money or goods.

Signs and Symptoms
Signatures on cheques etc., that do not resemble the older person's signature, or signed when the older person cannot write.
Sudden changes in bank accounts,
The unexplained sudden transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family
Numerous unpaid bills, or overdue rent, when someone else is supposed to be paying the bills.
Unusual concern by someone that an excessive amount of money is being spent on the care of the older person.
Lack of amenities, personal grooming items, appropriate clothing, that the older person should be able to afford.
The unexplained disappearance of funds or valuable possessions such as art, silverware, or jewellery.
Deliberate isolation of an older person from friends and family, resulting in the caregiver alone having total control.

ABUSE
Emotional/Psychological Institutional Abuse
Emotional/psychological abuse is a