Somerset Council has launched a new campaign to curb rising incidents of adult abuse.
The initiative, named 'Safeguarding is everyone's business', was announced for the Stop Adult Abuse Week, urging locals to stay vigilant for signs of self-neglect in their community.
The Somerset Safeguarding Adults Board (SSAB) is also behind the campaign, recognising that self-neglect may point to abuse.
Early detection can prevent further neglect, effectively saving lives.
If an individual is in immediate danger, residents are encouraged to contact the police on 999.
Otherwise, to report concerns about a community member, locals can contact Somerset Council on 0300 123 2224 or via email at adults@somerset.gov.uk.
Significantly, Somerset has witnessed an alarming rise in self-neglect related safeguarding enquiries, growing from 3.57% in 2019/20 to 7.69% in 2022/23.
This rate is slightly higher than the national average.
The campaign strategy includes a poster focussing on the signs of self-neglect to look out for, such as hoarding, social isolation and loss of interest in self-care.
Professor Michael Preston-Shoot, Independent Chair of SSAB, shared his thoughts on the launch.
He said: "The nights are getting colder and darker and we are all much more likely to be spending time at home, which makes abuse so much harder to spot.
"We really hope that this campaign gives people the nudge they need to check in on their neighbours if they haven’t heard from them in a while and, if the signs are there, to report abuse."
Carolyn Smith, Principal Social Worker (Adults) at Somerset Council, commented on the vital role of community support.
She said: "Part of what makes Somerset such a great place to live and work in is the people and our communities.
"Nearly 50% of our population live in rural areas, so communities are an important part of local support systems.
"With this campaign, we’re encouraging communities to connect with people who may be at risk of abuse."
Useful information on types of abuse, signs to identify them, what to do when worried about someone, and roles of adult carers are all included on the SSAB website.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here