Safeguarding

If you are concerned about abuse call the Age UK Advice Line 0800 678 1174. Report a concern about an adult in Hertfordshire Call them day or night – 0300 123 4042. If someone is in immediate danger - call 999.


Adults with care and support needs, (for example, a disability, health condition, mental illness or learning disability) can be at increased risk of abuse and neglect, and less able to protect themselves from harm. Safeguarding is the protection of the rights of those at risk. The Care Act 2014 sets out clear duties for local councils to protect these rights by preventing or stopping abuse and neglect of adults with care and support needs.

What is abuse and neglect?

Every adult should be able to live safely, free from abuse and neglect. Most adults are able to do this, but research indicates that almost half a million people aged over 65 will experience some form of abuse or neglect.


Incidents of abuse and neglect may be one-off or multiple, and affect one person or more. Adults may also be affected by more than one type of abuse at the same time.

What can I do if I feel unsafe or if I’m worried about someone else?

The best way to protect yourself or a loved one and stop abuse from happening is to tell someone about it. This may feel difficult, especially if the person abusing you is a close friend or relative, but abuse and neglect is never acceptable. You don’t have to put up with it, and there is help available for you to put a stop to it.


If a paid or family carer is involved, you may also be worried that telling someone will mean that you lose the care and support that you need. Please be assured that your care and support needs will continue to be met as part of any safeguarding response.

Get support & advice

You can get support and advice from:


  • Adult Social Services at your local council
  • Your GP or other NHS health providers
  • The Care Quality Commission
  • Domestic Abuse helpline 0808 2000 247
  • Hourglass helpline: 0808 808 8141
  • The Police - You can call the local police on the 101 non-emergency number or call 999 immediately in an emergency
  • Pharmacies – ask staff for ‘ANI’ and they can provide immediate help.

What will happen if I report abuse?

When you report abuse to Adult Social Care at your local council, they will listen to the information you give them and assess what action is required. They will ensure that you feel in control of what happens.


You can ask for someone that you trust to support you, or you can ask for an advocate. If you (or the person you are concerned about) has difficulties, or does not have the mental capacity to engage with the process, the local authority will arrange for an advocate to provide support.


If you’re at risk of further abuse, the Adult Social Services team will work with you to plan how you stay safe. You must be fully involved at every stage of this process.