Campaign launched to protect vulnerable adults

A new campaign to protect vulnerable people has been launched by Haringey Council.

There are vulnerable adults in the borough who aren't able to care for themselves without support and who can become victims of abuse.

The campaign is promoting a new team being set up specifically dedicated to tackling this problem. Previously any issues were dealt with by individual social workers.

Adult abuse can take many forms:

• physical, including hitting, slapping and kicking
• sexual, including inappropriate touching and language
• psychological, including threats of harm or humiliation
• financial exploitation, including theft, fraud or pressure over wills
• neglect, including ignoring medical or physical needs
• all forms of discrimination.

The abuse can take place anywhere at any time, but there are some simple warning signs to look out for: bruises, neglect such as dirty clothes, changes in someone's financial situation or changes in their behaviour such as loss of confidence or nervousness.

Any allegation of abuse will be investigated, with immediate action taken if needed to protect the individual. If needed, extra help will be provided or the victim will be put in a place of safety to ensure that they're no longer at risk.

There are some useful numbers if you are the victim of abuse or intimidation or know someone who is:

* In an emergency ring 999.
* Safeguarding Adults Referral Team: 020 8489 1400 (24 hours)
* Haringey Community Safety Unit: 0300 123 1212 (24 hour voicemail)
* Rogue Traders consumer advice: 08454 04 05 06