Public being urged to help those at risk

Oct 29 2009 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

WEST Lothian people are being urged to play their part in helping people suffering from harm or neglect.

A new Scotland-wide campaign launched this month, has been designed to raise awareness of The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007.

Part One of the Act came into effect in October last year, to support and protect adults who may be at risk from harm, such as physical or sexual harm, psychological harm, neglect or financial exploitation.

However, research undertaken on the campaign showed that there was low awareness of the Act amongst members of the public.

Many people either didn’t realise the Act existed, didn’t have an understanding of what types of harm it related to, or had limited knowledge of what they could do if they suspected someone they knew was at risk.

As the Act affects several groups of people, ranging from adults who are at risk, through to social work and health practitioners, police, public bodies and local authorities, a national campaign has been developed to help drive awareness amongst key audiences in a bid to help and protect those at risk.

The campaign, led by the Scottish Government, spells out a range of harms adults at risk may face, highlights the importance of speaking to someone if harm is suspected, and directs people to sources of help and advice.

West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership (CHCP) and West Lothian Council are also supporting the national campaign to help deliver the message locally.

Theresa Douglas, chair of West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership, said it is important that local people know the relevance of the scheme.

She said: “We welcome this awareness campaign for The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007.

“The 2007 Act is about achieving a balance between respecting people’s rights and taking action where necessary to support and to protect them.

“It should help individuals to live their lives as they wish by ensuring support is provided when they need it, and provide the means to protect ‘adults at risk’ of harm.”

Ellen Glass, executive councillor for health and care, added: “This awareness campaign reinforces the message that staff from West Lothian CHCP, West Lothian Council, and Lothian and Borders Police are committed to working together to protect adults at risk.”

People who are concerned or would like further information on the Act against harm campaign can call 0845 389 4000 or visit www.infoscotland.com/actagainstharm