Introduction to paying for care in Buckinghamshire

Financial abuse is when someone takes, pressures or misuses your money or property. Financial abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, income, or background. This abuse can have a serious impact on wellbeing, physical and mental health. Financial abuse is defined in Section 42 (3) of the Care Act 2014.

Financial abuse includes:

• having money or other property stolen
• being defrauded or scammed
• having money, property, possessions or benefits misused
• having your finances controlled by another person against your will

Here are some of the signs that might suggest you, or someone you know could be a victim of financial abuse:

• unexplained money loss
• lack of money to pay for essentials such as rent, bills and food
• unable to access or check bank accounts and bank balance
• changes or decline in standards of living
• unusual or inappropriate spending in bank statements
• isolation and withdrawal from friends and family
• having income, benefits or pensions taken or withheld by someone else