Abuse and Neglect

Everyone has the right to live their life safely. Free from being mistreat, hurt or exploited by others. Some people may be in a vulnerable situation. Making them less able to protect themselves from harm or mistreatment.

People who are often more vulnerable if:

• They are getting older

• Mental health problems

• Disabilities

• Sensory impairment

• Or, have some form of illness

Mistreating someone who is vulnerable is 'abuse'. Failing to properly look after a vulnerable person in your care is 'neglect'.

Both abuse and neglect of vulnerable people are never acceptable.

These pages will tell you more about what abuse and neglect are. Who is particularly vulnerable to abuse. How to get help if you or someone vulnerable is experiencing abuse or neglect.

It is important to remember. If you are experiencing abuse, it is not your fault.

Hartlepool Borough Council takes the abuse of vulnerable people very seriously. They will listen to your concerns and give you a prompt response.

If you think that you or someone you know is being subjected to abuse then please go to our page Protecting adults from abuse | Worried about someone | Hartlepool Borough Council - for advice and details on whom to contact.

The Easy Health website has gathered together various easy-read leaflets and videos which will help people with learning disabilities to understand what abuse is, and to know what to do if they think they're being subjected to abuse.