Abuse and neglect
Types of abuse and neglect
Being abused means a person is being treated with cruelty or violence.
Abuse can vary from an incident, such a person treating someone without dignity and respect, to extreme punishment or mistreatment.
The signs of abuse aren't always obvious, and an adult might not feel able to tell anyone what's happening to them. Sometimes, adults don't even realise that what's happening to them is abuse.
There are different types of abuse and the signs that an adult is being abused may depend on the type. Below are examples of the types of abuse.
- includes assault, hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, hair-pulling, and other forms of physical harm, or restraint
- signs: Unexplained injuries, bruises, fractures, frequent suspicious hospitalisations, sudden behavioural changes.
- involves psychological, physical, sexual, or financial harm within a domestic relationship
- signs: Fear, anxiety, withdrawal, or unexplained injuries
- See more information on domestic abuse on the Buckinghamshire Domestic Abuse Board website.
- encompasses rape, sexual assault, inappropriate touching, and non-consensual sexual acts
- signs: Unexplained pain, discomfort, or behavioural changes
- this can include emotional abuse, threats of harm, humiliation, controlling and intimidation. this can also include ignoring someone’s cultural or religious needs
- signs: Anxiety, depression, withdrawal, or changes in behaviour
- involves exploiting an individual’s finances, property, or assets
- signs: Unexplained financial transactions, missing belongings, sudden poverty, or social care contributions not being made if finances managed by a third party
- refers to forced labour, human trafficking, or exploitation
- signs: Isolation, fear, and restricted freedom
- occurs when someone is mistreated due to their race, gender, disability, or other characteristics
- signs: Unfair treatment, derogatory language, or exclusion
- neglect or poor care in a care setting, due to poor practices, misuse of medication, neglect, or harmful policies
- signs: absence of relatives or friends, inadequate care, or poor record-keeping and missing documents
- involves failing to provide necessary care, support, or attention
- signs: Malnutrition, dehydration, poor hygiene, or untreated medical conditions
- when an individual neglects their own well-being, leading to harm.
- signs: Poor personal hygiene, refusal of care, or unsafe living conditions.
Recognising signs of abuse is crucial for safeguarding adults who are or could be at risk. If you suspect abuse, report it promptly.