Abuse and neglect can often be hard to spot and sometimes people may not be aware that they are being abused.
Abuse is intentional mistreatment of another person, causing them harm. It usually happens more than once by someone who is known to the adult, or who provides a service to them.
Neglect is a type of abuse. It is the failure of an adult who has responsibility to care for another adult, provide the necessary care, support or attention to meet their nutritional, medical and personal care needs and to keep them safe from harm. Neglect can be intentional or unintentional.
Self-neglect is a behaviour that leads an adult to neglect their basic needs such as personal hygiene, wearing appropriate clothing, nutrition, managing medical conditions, neglecting the upkeep of their home. It also includes hoarding.
Some people are more vulnerable to abuse than others, this may be due to illness, frailty or a learning disability that makes it difficult for them to identify what abuse is. People who are lonely and rely on others to help to meet their daily needs are also at higher risk of experiencing abuse and neglect.
If you have concerns about a loved one, neighbour or someone in your community, call 01375 511000 or email Thurrock.First@thurrock.gov.uk
