This service is managed by Health and Community Care
Ensuring rights and preventing harm
This is a summary for staff and carers. Always refer to the full guidelines: Adult Support and Protection in Orkney.
Key Principles
Any action taken must provide a benefit that couldn't be achieved otherwise, be the least restrictive option, and take account of the adult's wishes and the views of those close to them.
Who Is an Adult at Risk?
Anyone over 16 who meets all three of the following:
- Can't safeguard their own wellbeing, property, rights, or interests
- Is at risk of harm
- Is more vulnerable to that harm due to disability, mental disorder, illness, or frailty
Abuse can be carried out by anyone, including carers, relatives, professionals, or strangers, and can happen anywhere.
Types of Abuse
| Type | Examples | Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Physical | Hitting, restraining, medication misuse | Unexplained injuries, fear of another person |
| Sexual | Rape, assault | Non-consensual sexual acts |
| Financial | Theft, fraud, pressure around money | Unexplained debt, missing money, pressure around wills |
| Psychological | Threats, control, isolation | Fear, hostile carer behaviour |
| Neglect | Withholding food, care, or medication | Unexplained health decline, found alone in risky situation |
| Discriminatory | Unfair treatment based on age, race, gender | Prejudiced remarks or actions |
| Information | Withholding or falsifying information | Not knowing rights, being misinformed |
What to Do Immediately
- Record everything in writing
- Report to your line manager straight away and agree a plan of action
- Call emergency services if someone is in immediate danger
Consent
- If the adult doesn't want action taken, usually respect this, but always discuss with your line manager
- If a criminal offence is suspected, refer to the police regardless of consent
- If the person is a patient, tenant, or resident, action must be taken whether or not they consent
- If capacity is in doubt, refer to the Social Work Service
Reporting
- Office hours (9am to 5pm): contact the Duty Worker on 01856 873535
- Out of hours: call the Balfour switchboard on 01856 888000 and ask for the Duty Social Worker
- Police: 101 at any time
Always refer to Orkney Health and Care within 24 hours.
Adult Social Work
NHS Orkney
What Happens Next
- An Adult Protection Case Conference may be held
- Ongoing support for the adult at risk
- Support for staff involved