What is adult safeguarding and when does it apply?

Adult safeguarding applies when an adult with care and support needs may be at risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation and cannot protect themselves. It covers physical, emotional and financial abuse, neglect, and self-neglect. Anyone can raise a concern with the local council — you do not need to be a professional or be certain that something wrong is happening. The council has a legal duty to investigate. Concerns can be about care homes, home care agencies, family members or anyone else involved in the person's care. The aim is to stop harm and support the person — not to take over their life.