Remember, call 999 if an adult is in immediate danger.
Spot the signs of abuse and speak out
The signs of abuse could be:
Financial abuse
Money, welfare benefits, belongings or property being withheld or stolen by another person.
Discrimination
Comments or jokes about a person's disability, age, race or sexual orientation.
Physical abuse
Hitting, pushing, slapping, misuse of medication or locking someone in a room.
Sexual abuse
Being made to do things of a sexual nature against someone's will.
Emotional abuse
Shouting, swearing, bullying, teasing or humiliating someone.
Neglect
Ignoring medical or physical care needs.
Self-neglect
Not attending to your own basic needs, for example personal hygiene, health or surroundings, including hoarding.
Domestic abuse
Including coercive control, psychological, physical, sexual, financial, emotional abuse, and 'honour' based violence.
When you spot these signs of abuse, there are ways you can speak out. Do not assume someone else will speak out instead of you.
If you are worried that an adult may be at risk of abuse or harm, contact:
Email: adultsocialcareconnect@southampton.gov.uk
Telephone: 023 8083 3003
Outside of normal office hours: 023 8023 3344
What will happen next?
We are able to take a number of actions, which might include:
- Listening, helping and supporting the person
- Working with them to stop the abuse and protect them or others from further harm
- Supporting the person and their carers through the process
- If a crime has been committed, we will work with the police
- Being available to offer support in the future
- If we cannot help, we will find out who can
All matters will be handled confidentially. However, if the issues concern evidence of a crime or unacceptable risk, this may be shared with the appropriate authorities.
