Adults at risk of harm should receive better and more consistent
care under a new national framework.
The Adult Support and Protection National Learning and
Development Framework has been published for use by professionals
and volunteers across Scotland.
Last year 63,144 adults affected by mental health problems,
substance misuse, learning disabilities, physical disabilities,
and infirmity due to age were referred for local authority
protection.
Launching the new framework at a meeting
of multi-agency professionals in Renfrewshire, Social
Care Minister said:
“Every adult has the right to live free from harm, with dignity
and respect. Yet, across Scotland, we know that some adults face
risks that threaten those rights and that levels of support and
protection can vary.
“Safeguarding is not just a legal duty - it's a moral
imperative. And it's everyone's business to
help identify and safeguard adults at risk of
harm.
“Our new framework sets out a clear, consistent approach to
building knowledge and skills for everyone involved in
safeguarding adults at risk of harm. It ensures a human rights
based approach is at the heart of everything we do.”
Background
National Framework for Adult
Support and Protection Learning and Development in Scotland -
gov.scot
Harm can occur in any setting and can be caused by anyone,
intentionally or otherwise. It can happen at home, a care
home, respite care or hospital setting; in a public
space or in the wider community.
The Framework will be for use by multiple agencies across health,
social work, social care, police, fire and rescue, ambulance,
voluntary and third sector to ensure people are suitably trained
and skilled to perform actions required by their remit in
supporting and protecting adults.
If you, or someone you know, is at risk of harm you can contact
your local authority by email or phone and share your concerns
anonymously. The matter will be dealt with sensitively and
confidentially and support given if needed. You will be able to
find details of your local authority on the Getting Help page of
the Care Information Scotland
website.
