Adult Support and Protection Day 2024
Some adults in East Ayrshire are more at risk of experiencing harm. This could be due to illness, trauma or a physical or mental health condition.
Next Tuesday 20 February is Adult Support and Protection Day, and East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership is urging everyone to look out for signs of harm and report any concerns, ensuring those at risk can receive the help and support they need to live safely.
As well as physical, psychological, financial or sexual harm, individuals can also be at risk through neglect or self-neglect. Additionally, adults may find themselves dependent on alcohol and/or other drugs and lose awareness of the situation they are living in, or the consequences of decisions they make.
Harm can happen anywhere; in someone’s home, where they work, or in a public place. It is often caused by the people closest to them, and can even happen in places responsible for keeping someone safe, such as a care home, hospital or day centre.
It’s important to speak up about any concerns you have, as the person may not be able to do so themselves.
Councillor Clare Maitland, East Ayrshire Council’s spokesperson for health and social care, said: “Adult Support and Protection day reminds us that we all need to be vigilant about the risk of harm that people may face, and what to do if we suspect something is not right.
“We need our communities to be a safe place for everyone to live and enjoy. We need to look out for each other so we can all feel secure in East Ayrshire.
“We can do this by sharing any concerns that we have about someone. Our adult protection team can help and they want people to know this is absolutely the right thing to do – it’s the best way to get them the support they may need.”
Brenda Walker, National Adult Support and Protection Coordinator for Scotland, said: “It can be difficult to know what to do when you’re worried about someone, and you might feel that you don’t want to interfere. However, reporting your concerns could really help to keep someone safe and turn their life around.
“The current cost of living crisis is making it even more difficult for those who are looking after others, or struggling to take care of themselves, so it’s more important right now than ever to keep your eyes open for signs of harm.
“Everyone has a role to play in keeping those in their communities safe, so I would encourage anyone who has seen something that worries them to please say something.”
If you’re worried that someone is at risk of harm or neglect from others - or is harming or neglecting themselves - contact East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership on 01563 554200.
Alternatively, you can contact the Police on 101, or call 999 if you believe the person is in immediate danger.
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