Definition
An ‘adult at risk’ means an adult who is experiencing, or at risk of, abuse or neglect.
Local councils have duties in relation to safeguarding adults at risk, who are defined as adults who have needs for care and support (whether or not the local council is meeting their needs) AND who are experiencing or at risk of abuse or neglect AND who, as a result of their care and support needs, are unable to protect themselves from either the risk or experience of abuse or neglect.
The bigger picture
The term ‘adult at risk’ was introduced in the Care Act 2014 to move away from the term ‘vulnerable adult’ and focus on the circumstances or situation causing the risk, rather than the characteristics of the adult. However definitions of the term ‘adult at risk’ often still imply that it is the person’s fault that they can’t protect themselves, and they are at risk because they are disabled, or due to their age, physical or mental health etc, rather than due to external factors.
The term is used as a blanket label, and often doesn’t refer to what the risk is, or what is causing the risk to the person – meaning external factors are not acknowledged or addressed. It can also mean assumptions are made about people and their lives, and about any support they require.
Saying it differently
Avoid using ‘adult at risk’ as a blanket label.