Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA)

1. Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA)

2. Who are vulnerable adults? The term “vulnerable adults” refers to any person aged 18years and over whom, “is or may be in need of help by reason of mental or other disability, age or illness and who is or may be unable to take care of himself or herself against significant harm or serious exploitation”.

3. What is adult abuse? Abuse is taking advantage of someone by treating them unfairly and being cruel to them.

4. Types of abuse

5. Who may abuse? Abuse can be perpetrated by anyone. Abuse may be inadvertent or intentional. People who abuse vulnerable adults may be: • A partner, child, relative or friend • A paid or volunteer carer • A health, social care or other worker • Other visitors or contacts • Another service user.

6. Where does abuse take place? Abuse may take place in a wide range of settings: • The vulnerable adult’s home • Day centre • Care home • Hospital • The workplace or leisure setting • Educational institutions

7. Signs of Abuse

9. Actions to take when Abuse is suspected or disclosed • Seek immediate medical treatment and contact the emergency services if the adult is injured or in danger. • If serious criminal act is suspected, ensure that the scene is secured to preserve evidence until the police arrive. • Listen carefully if a vulnerable adult discloses abuse and offer reassurance to ensure that they are not discouraged from reporting what has happened to them.

10. Actions to take continued • Do not question closely or go into details. Clarify the basic facts of the allegation of abuse or grounds for suspicion of abuse. Do not speak with the alleged abuser about what has happened. • Explain that you have a responsibility to tell your line manager in order to protect them from further harm. • Report your concern to your line manager or other appropriate senior manager as soon as possible.