The Adult
Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 is a piece of law to try
to protect people from being harmed. This is because some people
may find it more difficult to stop harm happening to them.
The Act calls people in this situation 'adults at
risk'.
The Adult Support and
Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 was introduced to identify and
protect individuals who fall into the category of adults at risk.
Measures of the Act include:
- requiring councils to make
the necessary enquiries and investigations to see if action is
needed to stop or prevent harm happening;
- requiring specific
organisations to co-operate with councils and each other about
adult protection investigations;
- the introduction of a range
of protection orders including assessment orders, removal orders
and banning orders; and
- a legislative framework for
the establishment of local multi-agency Adult Protection Committees
across Scotland.
The Act defines adults at risk as
people aged 16 years or over who:
- may be unable to safeguard
their well-being, rights, interests, or their property
- may be harmed by other
people;
- because of a disability,
illness or mental disorder are more at risk of being harmed than
others who are not so affected.
Having a particular condition
such as a learning disability or a mental illness does not
automatically mean an adult is at risk. Someone can have a
disability and be perfectly able to look after themselves. For an
adult to be considered at risk, all three parts of the definition
must be met.
Types of harm
There are many different
ways in which harm can be inflicted on someone. It could be
physical harm, psychological harm, neglect, financial harm or
sexual harm.
Where can harm happen?
Harm can happen anywhere
including your home, in hospital or a care home, at work or in a
public place.
Are you being harmed?
If you are unable to
protect yourself from being harmed it is important to tell someone.
Everyone has a right to be safe. Remember, if someone is
harming you then they may be doing it to others too.
Do you know someone who is being
harmed?
If you think you know
someone who is being harmed, is suffering from neglect or is at
risk of being harmed, you must tell someone. Remember, the person
being harmed may not be able to report it.
Who should I contact?
If you are being harmed
or someone you know is being harmed or is suffering from neglect,
it is important to tell someone. Everyone has a right to be safe.
Even if it happened many years ago, it is still important to report
it.
If you think an adult is at risk or would like advice about
anything to do with harm, you should contact your local council
Social Work services who will assist you. You can also speak to a
health professional or the police. They will take your concerns
seriously.
More information
You can find our more about
adult support and protection at the Act Against Harm and With Scotland
websites.
