Risk of abuse or neglect by a carer to an adult at risk may increase if the carer is isolated and lacks support.
Somerset Safeguarding Board1 have identified possible situations where an adult at risk is potentially vulnerable to abuse or neglect by a carer. They identify two main causes:
The adult at risk:
- having health and care needs beyond the carer’s ability to meet those needs
- rejecting help and support from people other than the carer
- refusing to be left alone by day or night
- controlling resources
- being abusive, aggressive or exhibiting frightening behaviours
- not understanding the impact of their behaviour on their carer
- is angry about their situation and punishes the carer
- not considering the needs of the carer
- treating the carer with lack of respect and /or courtesy.
Carers who:
- do not have their own needs met
- are or are vulnerable to abuse or neglect from the adult at risk
- lack understanding or insight into the adult at risk’s condition and/or needs
- had to change their lifestyle unwillingly
- do not receive practical and/or emotional support
- feel isolated, undervalued or stigmatised
- requested help but did not receive it or received help that did not address the issue
- have other responsibilities for example, caring for a family, working
- have no personal or private life outside their caring role
- feel unappreciated or exploited by the adult at risk, family and/or practitioners.
For further information see:
1Somerset Safeguarding Adults Board Carers and Safeguarding (Accessed 29/7/2019)