Prevention and early help to address any emerging concerns

Abuse and neglect can have a significant impact on adults at risk (See signs and indicators of abuse and neglect). However, early help, also referred to as early intervention, can:

• protect adults from becoming adults at risk who experience abuse, and/or neglect;
• avoid problems escalating;
• reduce the need for safeguarding enquiries and interventions;
• have long-term benefits for the adult’s health and well-being.

It is important therefore, that early help is offered to adults whenever possible to prevent them becoming an adult at risk.

The tasks for practitioners in contact with adults who may be vulnerable to becoming adults at risk of abuse and neglect are two-fold:

• to work with the adult and their carers to avoid situations arising that are likely to lead to the adult experiencing abuse or neglect i.e. build resilience, assets and strengths;

and, if this is not effective:

• to identify and address emerging concerns that if not resolved could result in the adult becoming an adult at risk and experiencing abuse or neglect.

Pointers for Practice: Identifying Adults and Their Carers Who May Require Early Interventions to Prevent the Adult Becoming an Adult at Risk of Abuse and Neglect