Signs and Symptoms of Abuse

Abuse may take many forms and may include criminal activity. It may take the form of:

• Physical abuse
• Neglect
• Emotional abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Financial abuse
• Institutional abuse

It may involve any combination of the above.

Possible Indicators of Physical Abuse

• Multiple bruising
• Fractures
• Burns
• Bed sores
• Fear
• Depression
• Unexplained weight loss
• Assault (can be intentional or reckless)

Possible Indicators of Neglect

• Malnutrition
• Untreated medical problems
• Bed sores
• Confusion
• Over-sedation
• Deprivation of meals may constitute “wilful neglect”

Possible Indicators of Emotional Abuse

• Fear
• Depression
• Confusion
• Loss of sleep
• Unexpected or unexplained change in behaviour
• Deprivation of liberty could be false imprisonment. Aggressive shouting causing fear of violence in a public place may be an offence against Public Order Act 1986, or harassment under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997

Possible Indicators of Sexual Abuse

• Loss of sleep
• Unexpected or unexplained change in behaviour
• Bruising
• Soreness around the genitals
• Torn, stained or bloody underwear
• A preoccupation with anything sexual
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Pregnancy
• Rape – e.g. a male member of staff having sex with a Mental Health client (see Mental Health Act 1983)
• Indecent Assault
  

Possible Indicators of Financial Abuse

• Unexplained withdrawals from the bank
• Unusual activity in the bank accounts
• Unpaid bills
• Unexplained shortage of money
• Reluctance on the part of the person with responsibility for the funds to provide basic food and clothes etc.
• Fraud
• Theft

Possible Indicators of Institutional Abuse

• Inflexible and non-negotiable systems and routines
• Lack of consideration of dietary requirements
• Name calling; inappropriate ways of addressing people
• Lack of adequate physical care – an unkempt appearance

Contact Information
Send us a Message	The Safeguarding Adults Team Frederick House Dunkirk Lane Hyde SK14 4QD  View local map
0161 342 5217/5229/5243
0161 342 5265