Understand types and signs of abuse

Question 1

Types of abuse

Answer 1

Physical
Emotional
Neglect
Sexual
Financial
Institutional
Bullying
Exploitation/ mate crime
Discrimination

Question 2

Signs of these types of abuse

Answer 2

• Unexplained injuries (burns, fractures, breaks, bruising, cuts, scars)
• Malnourishment
• Changes in behaviour (mood swings, social withdrawal, suicidal thoughts)
• Low self- esteem
• Self- harm
• Inappropriate or sexualised behaviour
• Unexplained loss of money or possessions
• Fear of certain people or situations

Question 3

Adults, young people and children most at risk from abuse

Answer 3

• Learning disability
• Dementia
• Lack of mental capacity (difficulty communicating)
• Sensory impairment
• Physical disabilities
• Looked after children

Question 4

Environmental factors that may make abuse more likely

Answer 4

• Care services with institutional practises
• Adults and children residing in health and social care settings
• Health services (GP surgeries, physiotherapy practises)
• Independent living facilities
• Homelessness

Question 5

Other factors that may make abuse more likely

Answer 5

• Situations where people are dependant on others
• Relationships where there is an imbalance of power
• Social isolation (living independently, possibly with no care or support)
• Situations where there is an invasion of privacy
• Staffing issues (lack of staff or lack of staff training)

Question 6

People who might suspect or be told about abuse

Answer 6

• Peers
• Family
• Siblings
• Teachers
• Social workers
• Other professionals (doctors, nurses)
• Other members of the public (neighbour)