A background to Ask SAL - The Adult Safeguarding Line

Given a moment or two most people can recall the names of children who have suffered as a result of abusive relationships, all of whom have their own tragic stories. Many have become household names because they have, rightly or wrongly, become the subject of wide scale and often national media campaigns.

But what if we switch the focus to adults? Though modern media rarely focuses upon the abuse of vulnerable adults it does happen, and we should not hide behind the smokescreen caused by a lack of media coverage. Everybody, regardless of age, possesses the right to live their lives without suffering at the hands of an abuser. Unfortunately this right isn't always realised; last year in Essex around 1500 referrals of adult abuse were made, and we'd be foolish to assume the abuse stopped there.

Here in Essex, a new initiative has been launched in the form of a helpline called Ask SAL (the safeguarding adults line). Launched in June 2009 this pioneering project comes as the result of a unique partnership between ESAB, the Southend and Thurrock adult safeguarding boards, as well as two national voluntary organisations who specialise in working to prevent the abuse of vulnerable adults: Voice UK and Action on Elder Abuse.

The helpline is operated by experienced and friendly helpline staff primarily as a source of information and advice in situations where callers have concerns that abuse may be occurring. Staff will however, when asked, and if necessary, follow the correct procedures to ensure that a safeguarding referral is made to statutory services. The 0808 number cannot be traced on electronic or paper telephone bills.

Can you help?

Save the number in your phone, this is vitally important if you have regular contact with an adult who may be at particular risk of suffering abuse. Start to think outside of the box; though you may not witness any form of abuse in person there is no harm in keeping an eye out for certain signs, especially if you are concerned. Changes in behaviour can often occur as a result of different types of abuse, signs that somebody is being neglected are often the most obvious. But there are more subtle indications that other types of abuse may be occurring; are valuable items starting to go missing without explanation? This is just one potential sign of financial abuse but there are many more.

Help us to keep adults safe across Essex. Remember, ignoring abuse is not an option - Any person or organisation with knowledge of, or suspicion that a vulnerable adult may be at risk of abuse or is being abused must report their concerns.

Do not hesitate, call in confidence today on 0808 80 10 345