London Borough of Croydon

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Protection of vulnerable adults

Who is a vulnerable adult?

Someone aged 18 years and over who may be unable to take care of or protect themselves because they have physical or mental health needs, and/or a disability. Carers can also be vulnerable adults.

What is adult abuse?

Abuse can take many forms:

  • Discriminatory abuse - abuse focussed on someone's race, disability, gender, sexuality, religious belief or age
  • Physical abuse - hitting, pushing, burning
  • Psychological abuse - verbal abuse, humiliation, bullying or the use of threats
  • Financial abuse - illegal or improper use of a person's property, money, pension book, bank account or other belongings
  • Sexual abuse - direct or indirect sexual activity where the vulnerable adult cannot or does not give their consent
  • Neglect - not providing a person with the essential care they need, thus causing them to suffer

Who abuses?

Anyone from relatives and family members to professional staff, paid care workers, volunteers, other service users, neighbours, acquaintances and strangers.

Who to contact?

Emergencies - call 999

If the person is injured, or in immediate physical danger, contact the police and other appropriate emergency services without delay.

Adult Abuse Reporting Line - call 020 8760 5697

Call the Adult Abuse Reporting Line and say you wish to report a case of suspected abuse or neglect. You can do this anonymously if you wish.

Advice and Information - call 020 8760 5790

For advice and information contact the Safeguarding Adults (Adult Protection) Co-ordinator.

What will happen once abuse is reported?

An investigation may be carried out, and if abuse has occurred, a protection plan will be put in place.

We may be able to keep you informed of the progress and outcome of the investigation but this is not always possible because of the rights to confidentiality of the people involved. 

The website crimereduction.gov.uk has some very useful information, especially on keeping safe.

Contact Details

Contact name
Safeguarding Adults Co-ordinator
Telephone
020 8667 8227
Email
vincent.docherty@croydon.gov.uk
Address
FR 4:01
Taberner House
Park Lane
Croydon CR9 2BA

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