We work with other agencies/organisations to safeguard those who cannot protect themselves.
Safeguarding is the action we take to promote the welfare of children and adults at risk.
What to look out for:
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Physical abuse - hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, misuse of medication, being locked in a room, inappropriate sanctions or force-feeding, inappropriate methods of restraint, and unlawfully depriving a person of their liberty.
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Sexual abuse - forcing or enticing a person to take part in sexual activities, whether or not they are aware of or consent to what is happening. May involve penetrative or non-penetrative contact including looking at or being involved in pornography or prostitution
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Emotional or psychological abuse -threats of harm or abandonment, deprivation of contact, humiliation, rejection, blaming, controlling, intimidation, coercion, indifference, harassment, verbal abuse (including shouting or swearing), and isolation or withdrawal from services or support explained injury or injury that is not consistent with the explanation given
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Financial abuse -theft, fraud, exploitation, pressure in connection with wills or property and the misappropriation of property or benefits. It also includes the withholding of money or the unauthorised or improper use of a person's money or property. Staff borrowing money or objects from a service user is also considered financial abuse.
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Neglect and self-neglect - the persistent failure to respond to a person's basic needs. Those who self-neglect often live in extreme conditions of squalor and can have a tendency to hoard
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Discriminatory neglect - motivated by oppressive and discriminatory attitudes towards a person based on their disability, race, gender, religion or belief, cultural background, sexual orientation or appearance
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Domestic abuse - also known as domestic violence, this form of abuse encompasses a range of abusive behaviours which are used by a partner or ex-partner to maintain power and control over a person. It can take the form of physical or emotional (coercive) abuse and affects women, men and any children within the household
Worried about a child?
Contact Lincolnshire County Council's Customer Service Centre on 01522 782 111 if you suspect a child is suffering abuse or neglect or if you are concerned about the welfare of a child or young person (up to the age of 18)
Worried about an adult?
Contact Lincolnshire County Adult Social Care on 01522 782 155 if you are worried about an adult and have concerns that they are suffering abuse or neglect (this can also be self neglect).
If you witness something which causes you concern for a person's welfare (child or adult) outside of normal office hours, including evenings, weekends or Bank Holidays please call Lincolnshire County Council's Emergency Line on 01522 782 333.
If it is an emergency situation call 999 immediately.