Adult Support & Protection Day – Seen something? Say something

Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership has marked National Adult Support and Protection Day, Monday 20 February, by asking people to help spot the signs of neglect and self-neglect.

New data published by the Scottish Government on National Adult Support and Protection Day suggests that across Scotland, there were around 940 Adult Support and Protection referrals per week between December 2021 and December 2022.

Although monthly figures fluctuate, there has been a general upward trend in Adult Support and Protection referrals since May 2020. 

In general, physical harm and financial harm are the most common forms of harm against adults at risk, but adult protection covers a wide range of harm.

This includes everything from sexual harm to psychological harm; self-harm to neglect or self-neglect – when people struggle to take care of themselves.

See something, say something.

If you see something and think someone may be at risk of harm, say something. Not all adults are able to speak up and ask for help for themselves and everyone deserves to live a life free from harm.

This short video produced by the National Adult Support and Protection Communications Group explains some of the issues relating to harm and neglect, and what to do if you are worried.

Marking Adult Support and Protection Day, Social Care Minister Kevin Stewart said: “We know that the cost of living crisis is making day to day decisions harder for many, and for those looking after others, or struggling to take care of themselves it could be making things even harder. The important thing is that people know what to look for and where to go to get help for anyone they are worried about may be suffering from neglect or self-neglect.

“Everyone has a role to play in keeping people safe from harm, and Adult Support and Protection Day helps highlight the role people in the community have in raising concerns. I would like to thank the ASP National Communications Group for all the effort that has gone into raising the focus on this and helping ensure people are getting the help that they need.”

Brenda Walker, National Adult Support and Protection Coordinator said: “It’s sometimes hard to see when someone is struggling to manage, or you might feel you don’t want to interfere. Sharing your concern is the right thing to do and can allow support to be offered.

“Right now, many people are finding it even more difficult, and the cost of living crisis is making already challenging situations worse.

“Harm can happen anywhere: in someone’s home, where they work, in a public place – often caused by the people closest to them. It can even happen in places responsible for keeping someone safe, such as a care home or day centre.”