Institutional

Institutional abuse is different from other categories because it is about who abuses and how that abuse comes to pass, rather than about types of harm. Abuse occurs in a relationship, family, service or institution and it can be perpetrated by an individual or more collectively, by a regime.

POTENTIAL INDICATORS OF INSTITUTIONAL ABUSE

The following list may be possible indicators of institutional abuse - it is important not to jump to the wrong conclusions too quickly.

No flexibility in bed time routine and/or deliberate waking
People left on the commode or toilet for long periods of time
Inappropriate care of possessions, clothing and living area
Lack of personal clothes and belongings
Un-homely or stark living environments
Deprived environmental conditions and lack of stimulation
Inappropriate use of medical procedures e.g. enemas, catheterisation
'Batch care' - lack of individual care programmes
Illegal confinement or restrictions
Inappropriate use of power or control
People referred to, or spoken to with disrespect
Inflexible services based, on convenience of the provider rather than the person receiving services
Inappropriate physical intervention
Service user removed from the home or establishment, without discussion with other appropriate people or agencies, because staff are unable to manage the behaviours