Vulnerable adults focus of new support drive

A new drive to help support and protect adults at risk of harm or neglect living in Scotland has been launched.

The “Act against harm” campaign will raise awareness of the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 throughout Scotland.

The campaign – led by Age Concern and Help the Aged in Scotland, Alzheimer Scotland and Momentum, in partnership with the Scottish Government – will illustrate the kind of harm to which many adults are subjected, including sexual and physical harm, as well as financial exploitation and emotional mistreatment.

Members of the public will be advised of who to contact if they encounter an adult that they suspect is being harmed or exploited and unable to protect themselves.

A new television advert will be screened from Monday and will be supported by regional press advertising, posters and leaflets in GP surgeries, pharmacies and libraries.

Professor James Hogg, independent convenor of the Dundee Adult Support & Protection Committee said: Many people are unaware of the extent to which some adults are at risk of sexual, physical, emotional and financial harm and exploitation, as well as the neglect they may suffer.

“For a variety of reasons they may be unable to protect themselves from such damaging experiences.  The Adult Support & Protection Act, though little known to the public at present, has been passed by the Scottish Parliament in order to protect such at-risk individuals from harm.

“Adults at risk of harm or neglect need to know that they don’t have to tolerate mistreatment any more, and, that there is help and support available at the end of a phone line.

Dundee City Council’s social work and health convener Councillor Jim Barrie added: “It is vitally important that there is a strong message sent out that adults at risk of harm and neglect have our full support.
 
“I hope this campaign is successful in driving awareness among the public of the need to tackle harm and help protect those at risk.”

Local authorities across Scotland are also supporting the national campaign to help deliver the message locally.