What is abuse?

What do we mean by abuse?

"Abuse is the violation of an individual's human and civil rights by any other person"

This is the definition from the guidance document published by the Department of Health in 2000

It can vary from the seemingly trivial act of not treating someone with respect and dignity to extreme punishment or torture.

What defines a Vulnerable Adult?

Any person aged 18 years or over who:

  • is or may be in need of community care services by reason of mental or other disability, age or illness and
  • is or may be unable to take care of him or herself or
  • unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or serious exploitation

(Law Commission 1995 and quoted in 'No Secrets' 2000)

Why might a person be vulnerable?

We are all potential victims of crime or abuse and any of the following conditions may increase our  vulnerability, for example:

  • learning disability
  • mental health problem
  • physical / sensory impairment
  • is frail or an older person

The seven types of abuse are: