Protecting vulnerable adults
Learn how to spot the signs of vulnerability and to look out for vulnerable adults living in your community.
There may be vulnerable adults living in your community. It is important we look out for these people and offer them the necessary support and protection.
We work very closely with partner agencies, such as Adult Social Care and Health, to make sure vulnerable adults at risk in Avon and Somerset are protected.
This involves early risk identification, and empowering the public to report any concerns.
Early-risk identification
Signs of vulnerability include:
- physical signs – for example, unexplained bruising, burns, or poor personal care, such as unkempt appearance or hygiene
- behavioural changes – look out for noticeable changes in personality, such as becoming withdrawn
- home environment – inadequate living conditions or being confined to a single room can signal neglect or abuse
- financial difficulties – unpaid bills, utility shut-off notices, or a lack of access to their own funds may point to financial exploitation
- dependence on others – individuals who depend on others for care, or are in a care home setting, may be more vulnerable
Issues that affect vulnerable adults
Abuse and neglect of older adults
Any adult can suffer abuse or neglect from anyone in their lives.
Abuse can include physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, financial abuse and neglect, or organisational abuse for adults within a care setting.
Adults needing care and support may be at risk of self-neglect and may lack capacity to make decisions for themselves.
Abuse may also include coercive control, neglect or discrimination, modern slavery, domestic abuse and cuckooing.
Cuckooing or forced home invasion
‘Cuckooing’ is when criminals target a vulnerable person’s home, to store drugs, weapons or drug money, or to use it as a base for drug dealing or sex work.
They may begin by befriending the vulnerable adult. Organised crime groups often select charming and manipulative members to quickly build a rapport with the victim.
The vulnerable adult may be offered a relationship, friendship, drugs or alcohol (or both), money or clothing in exchange for the criminal to use a room in their home.
For more information, visit our report concerns about county lines and cuckooing page.
‘Mate’ crime
Mate crime is when somebody claims to be a friend, but then takes advantage of the victim by doing things like asking for money.
A real friend should show care, and be fair and kind towards you. Someone who takes your money, asks you to pay for things, or makes you feel uncomfortable is not a friend.
Stay safe from abusers
If someone you do not fully trust:
- asks to borrow your mobile phone, say no – they may never pay you back
- somewhere nearby, be aware – no friend would charge you a lot of money for a short trip
- wants you to go out with them, do not pay for everything yourself – make sure they pay their way
- asks to come to your home, ensure they do not eat all your food or leave your home messy
If someone who says they are your friend hurts you, steals from you or makes you do something you feel uncomfortable doing, tell to someone you trust right away.
Immediate danger
If you feel in immediate danger, call 999 immediately.