Who's vulnerable to abuse

Sadly, any adult is at risk of abuse and the many forms it can take.  

However, some people are particularly vulnerable to abuse. A vulnerable or at-risk adult is often a person aged 18 years or over who - 

  • has needs for care and support whether or not the local authority is meeting any of those needs 

  • is experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect 

  • as a result of those care and support needs is unable to protect themselves from either the risk of or the experience of abuse or neglect 

An adult with care and support needs may be someone who - 

  • has a physical or learning disability or a sensory impairment 

  • is elderly 

  • has mental health needs, such as dementia or a personality disorder 

  • misuses substances or alcohol to the extent that it affects their ability to manage day to day living 

  • has a long term health condition 

  • is providing unpaid care to a family member or friend 

Report abuse 

If you have concerns that someone you know may be at risk of abuse or is being abused, it is very important to let us know. You can do this using the link below. 

Worried about an adult - raise a concern