The Open Episcopal Church

The Communion of the Open Episcopal Church in the Province of the United Kingdom
A member of the International Council of Community Churches & the World Council of Churches

Protecting Vulnerable Adults in Scotland

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

We will:

Listen to what you say
Treat you with dignity, respect and sensitivity
Take action as necessary

What to do if you suspect or have witnessed someone being abused

DO stay calm and listen to them
DO take what you are being told seriously
DO offer support to help stop the abuse happening
DO be aware that medical or other evidence might be needed so keep the evidence safe
DO make a written note of what you have been told
DO contact Social Services or Police and your bishop

Do NOT press the person for more details (these can be taken later)
Do NOT assume that someone else is aware of the situation and will take action
Do NOT contact the alleged abuser
Do NOT promise to keep it a secret
Do NOT be afraid to contact social services or police to discuss it

Our Vulnerable Adults Protection Officer can be reached on:

01443 478868

What is abuse?

Abuse can take many forms and include:

Physical
Emotional
Sexual
Neglect or Deprivation
Imposed isolation/confinement
Sensory Deprivation
Financial/Material
Discrimination

SELF-INFLICTED INJURY MAY BE A SIGN THAT ABUSE IS TAKING PLACE (e.g. because someone feels disturbed)

Who can abuse?

Anyone may be an abuser, but it is often someone known to the person

Where does abuse happen?

Abuse can happen anywhere. It may happen at home,in a Care Home, Hospital, Day Centre, Church or in a public place

What do we mean by abuse?

Abuse is when someone does something to another person which damages their quality of life or puts them at risk of harm. Abuse can be a criminal act when it is an offence against another person. It can happen once or repeatedly. It may be deliberate or caused by ignorance. It is sometimes referred to as bullying

If you wish to discuss your concerns any time contact our Vulnerable Adults Protection Officer. If you think they may be at immediate risk or harm then you should contact the Police by calling 999