Types of abuse
Many concerns about children, young people and vulnerable adults arise on a day to day basis and most cases will not develop into abuse or neglect. However, sometimes concerns can be more worrying if it is clear that a child, young person or adult at risk may be affected by what has happened to them. There are several ways in which children, young people and adults at risk can be harmed:
- Physical abuse – includes hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, scalding, drowning, suffocating or otherwise causing physical harm.
- Neglect – the persistent failure to meet a child, young persons’ or vulnerable adults basic physical and/or psychological needs likely to result in serious impairment of their health.
- Sexual abuse – forcing or enticing a child, young person or vulnerable adult to take part in sexual activities whether or not they are aware of what is happening.
- Emotional/psychological abuse – the persistent emotional maltreatment of a child, young person or vulnerable adult such as to cause severe and persistent adverse affects on their emotional development or state of mind.
- Financial abuse – relates to vulnerable adults and includes theft, fraud, exploitation, pressure in connection with wills, property or inheritance or financial transactions, misuse of property, possessions or benefits.
Responding to a concern about a child, young person or adult at risk
If you are concerned about a child, young person or adult at risk then you can call Lincolnshire County Council:
- Concerns relating to Children: 01522 782111
- Concerns relating to Adults: 01522 782155
- or the Emergency Out of Hours Number is: 01522 782333
- If you feel a child or adult at risk is at immediate threat please call the Police on 999
If your concern is about a member of staff or volunteer that is working with children, young people or adult at risk then please report through the same procedure as above. Lincolnshire County Council Customer Services Centre will be able to advice you which is the appropriate authority/person to report this concern to.
The Lincolnshire County Council Customer Services Centre will be able to provide support and advice on individual circumstances. All North Kesteven District Council staff receive Safeguarding training and can help you if have a concern and are unsure what to do.