Today is Adult Support and Protection Awareness Day and Shetland Public Protection Committee is urging everyone to look out for vulnerable adults who may be susceptible to financial harm.
There are adults in Shetland who are more at risk from financial harm, due to illness, trauma and physical or mental health conditions. Financial harm can cover theft, fraud and pressure to sign over property or money. It also relates to rogue traders, online scammers and misuse of benefits.
Harm can happen anywhere - in someone’s home, where they work, or in a public place - and is often caused by the people closest to them. It can even happen in places responsible for keeping someone safe, such as a care home, hospital or day centre.
It’s important to speak up about any concerns you have, as the person may not be able to do so themselves.
Lindsay Tulloch, Chair of Shetland Public Protection Committee, says “Financial abuse can take many forms including online scams, bogus callers, rogue traders or from friends, family or carers in a position of trust appointed with power of attorney to look after someone's finances and welfare.
“Financial abuse can have a devastating and lasting effect to a victims wellbeing and mental health. Adult support and protection legislation is in place to ensure people vulnerable to financial abuse and exploitation are protected. If you are aware of anyone living in our community who may be vulnerable to financial abuse, please contact social work services or police for advice and support."
Brenda Walker, National Adult Support and Protection Coordinator for Scotland, said: “It can be difficult to know what to do when you’re worried about someone, and you might feel that you don’t want to interfere. However, reporting your concerns could really help to keep someone safe and turn their life around.
“The current cost of living crisis is making it even more difficult for those who are looking after others, or struggling to take care of themselves, so it’s more important right now than ever to keep your eyes open for signs of harm.
“Everyone has a role to play in keeping those in their communities safe, so I would encourage anyone who has seen something that worries them to please say something.”
If you’re worried that someone is at risk of harm or neglect from others - or harming or neglecting themselves - contact Duty Social Work 01595 744468 (or Out of Hours 01595 695611). Alternatively, you can contact the Police on 101, or call 999 if you believe the person is in immediate danger.
For more information and advice about safeguarding children, young people and adults in Shetland, please look up www.safershetland.com/