Protecting people from abuse

What is abuse?

Abuse is anything that harms another person physically or mentally and includes bullying and harassment.

People who need care and support have to trust everyone that they rely on for help. We know that abuse can happen and that it can take many forms. It might be carried out by any one of a range of people including: family, friends, neighbours, paid staff, carers, volunteers, other service users or strangers.

Those who are vulnerable and are unable to protect themselves against significant harm or exploitation due to perhaps a physical disability, mental ill-health, a learning disability, age or frailty may be particularly at risk.

• What sort of things count as abuse?

• More about domestic violence

What to do if you think someone is being abused

If you think someone is being abused, don’t assume that someone else is doing something about it.

Make your concerns known to someone in authority that you feel comfortable speaking to, for example:

• the Adult Services Department at Hampshire County Council
• the owner or manager of the domiciliary care or nursing agency
• the local office of the Commission for Social Care Inspection
• if you believe a crime has been committed, contact your local police on 0845 045 45 45
• visit the Domestic Violence page for details of support groups and organisations in your local area

What to do if you think you are being harassed

Harassment is any form of unwanted and unwelcome behaviour which may range from mildly unpleasant remarks to physical violence.

• If you believe you are being harassed, this should be reported to the police by calling 0845 045 45 45
• If you are being harassed at your place work, you should, if possible, report this to your manager or employer.
• If you are unsure who to speak to you can contact the Community Safety Service for advice on 0845 600 1747.