What steps should I take if I suspect an adult is being financially exploited?

If you suspect that an adult is being financially exploited, you should not investigate the situation yourself to avoid compromising any police or other investigations and to preserve any physical evidence as much as possible.

Discuss confidentiality with the adult: inform them that you have a responsibility to report your concerns, who you will report to, why, and when, and do not promise to keep secrets.

Report the suspected financial abuse as soon as is practical to a senior member of staff and the safeguarding lead within your organisation, unless they are implicated in the abuse.

If you do not feel confident reporting within your organisation, you should contact the local authority directly to make a safeguarding referral.

When making a safeguarding referral, the local authority will assess whether there is reasonable cause to suspect that the adult with care and support needs is experiencing abuse or neglect and is unable to protect themselves, and if so, will conduct a safeguarding enquiry under section 42 of the Care Act 2014.

Throughout the process, follow the principles of the Making Safeguarding Personal framework, ensuring that any actions are guided by the wishes and feelings of the adult, and consider their mental capacity in line with the Mental Capacity Act.

If the adult does not want safeguarding action but you still suspect abuse, a safeguarding referral must still be made to protect their vital interests and prevent further harm.