From 2013 to 2015, 4,748 cases of sexual abuse were reported where adults with disabilities were the victims. The BBC collected data from 106 UK councils and discovered that 63% of these cases were against people with learning disabilities. Meanwhile 37% were against individuals with physical disabilities. These disturbing figures just go to highlight the importance of organisations and individuals having the skills to recognise and act on signs of abuse as soon as possible.
To live a life free from abuse and harm is a basic human right after all. We are all responsible for the protection of people at risk from abuse. But, even more so, those who come into contact with vulnerable adults regularly through their work. Vulnerable individuals are reliant on the people around them to help make sure they are kept safe from harm. If you ignore the signs of neglect or abuse then you are allowing it to simply continue.
Protecting vulnerable adults
Most adults with a mental illness, physical disability, learning disability or other special needs are able to live safely. But unfortunately for some, their dependence on other people could lead to abuse and exploitation. This abuse could include:
- Sexual abuse
- Psychological abuse
- Domestic abuse
- Discriminatory abuse
- Financial abuse
- Neglect
Safeguarding Adults training
At Risk Safety Services, we recognise the importance of protecting and safeguarding vulnerable members of society. That’s why we created our Safeguarding Adults e-learning course. Our course is suitable for anyone with a duty of care for, or works with adults in need of additional care and support. This course will give you the knowledge and skills to take the appropriate steps in helping to protect the adults in your care. Our training covers five crucial elements in the practice of safeguarding adults, including:
- Introduction and Definitions
- Abuse and the Rights of Vulnerable Adults
- Recognising the Signs of Abuse
- What to Do if you Suspect Abuse
- Safeguarding Legislation
Training courses created by industry experts
All of our training courses at Risk Safety Services are created by experts in the field of health and safety. Our Consultants have extensive experience working across most industries and can help SMEs to set up their management systems, write health and safety policies and carry out general and specific risk assessments, alongside training and auditing. To find out more about this course, or any of our other training opportunities, please call us today on 0843 523 0410.