What is adult safeguarding?

In an emergency, or if you suspect you or someone else is in immediate danger, phone 999.

If an adult is experiencing abuse, neglect, or self-neglect – or is at risk – they may need support. Some people cannot protect themselves from harm. In these situations, help is available.

The Adult Safeguarding Team at Portsmouth City Council can provide advice and support to keep people safe.

Abuse and neglect can take many forms. They can be caused by anyone – a relative, friend, neighbour, professional, or even a stranger.

Main types of abuse and neglect include:

• Physical abuse – hitting, slapping, pinching, kicking
• Neglect and acts of omission – ignoring someone’s needs, not providing care, medication, or nutrition
• Sexual abuse – being forced into any sexual activity without consent
• Financial abuse – theft of money or property, fraud, or scams
• Discriminatory abuse – being treated unfairly because of a protected characteristic such as age, sex, or race
• Psychological or emotional abuse – being shouted at, threatened, intimidated, or bullied
• Self-neglect – when someone is unable or unwilling to care for themselves
• Organisational abuse – neglect or poor practice in a care setting such as a care home or hospital
• Domestic abuse – physical, psychological, or financial harm between people in a relationship or family members
• Modern slavery – forced labour, domestic servitude, and human trafficking
• Sexual exploitation – being forced to carry out sex work

Watch time: 2 mins

If you believe an adult is at risk of abuse or neglect and may need help to stay safe, please report it.

You can report a concern about an adult on our dedicated webpage with all the relevant contact details including the Adult Safeguarding team, the Children’s Multi-agency Safeguarding Hub team and the Portsmouth Safeguarding Adults Board.

Anyone can report an adult safeguarding concern. If you make a report, the Adult Safeguarding Team will:

• Listen to you and take your concerns seriously
• Make enquiries about the issues you have raised
• Consider the views and wishes of the adult at risk – this may include speaking directly to them or arranging support from an advocate
• Work with other agencies if needed, such as care homes, the police, GPs, or social workers
• Refer the person for specialist support if required
• Decide the best way to keep the person safe now and in the future
• Support the adult to live the life they choose, free from abuse