Page 17 - Getting it Right for Vulnerable Children and Young People in North Ayrshire

Adult Support and Protection The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 was introduced in 2008. The Act covers all adults (anyone over the age of sixteen years) who are at risk of harm and who, because of a mental or physical infirmity, are unable to safeguard themselves against harm. All types of harm are covered by the Act, including neglect and self-harm. Everyone deserves to live a life free from harm, and protecting adults covered by the Act who are at risk of harm, is the responsibility of all workers. The Act states: “Where a public body or office-holder knows or believes (a) That a person is an adult at risk, and (b) That action needs to be taken in order to protect that person from harm, the public body or office-holder must report the facts and circumstances of the case to the council for the area in which it considers the person to be.” Staff need to be particularly alert when working with vulnerable young people that consideration is given to planning for their well-being after they reach the age of sixteen. If staff becomes aware that a young person over the age of sixteen may be vulnerable or at risk of harm, they should make an Adult Support and Protection Referral to Social Services. Further information on Adult Support and Protection, including how to make a referral, is available at: http://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/resident/health-and-social-care/adults-and-older- people/adult-support-and-protection.aspx Getting It Right For Vulnerable Children and Young People in North Ayrshire Live V1.2 April 2014 Page No:17