What is abuse?

The most common types of abuse are:

Physical abuse

This is usually the use of force to cause pain and injury. Signs such as burns, bruising, scratches, accidents which cannot be explained, are common signs of abuse.

Neglect

A vulnerable adult may not have their basic needs met, such as feeding, help with personal hygiene. As a result there may be a deterioration of health, or in a person’s appearance or mood.

Financial abuse

This is when a vulnerable adult is exploited for financial gain. Often valuables will go missing in the home or there may be a change in the financial circumstances of the adult which cannot be explained.

Sexual abuse

These are sexual acts which the vulnerable adult has not or could not consent to and/or was pressurised or manipulated into consent. Signs may be changes in behaviour or physical discomfort.

Psychological abuse

This can be emotional abuse, threats of harm or abandonment, blaming or controlling behaviour, verbal or racial abuse or enforced isolation. Signs may be fear, confusion or disturbed sleep.

This list is not exhaustive, there are many other types of abuse.