Lerue Healthcare

Adult Support and Protection

Here at Lerue Healthcare, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults who may be at risk of harm or abuse. We align our approach with the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007, which provides a legal framework to protect adults who are unable to safeguard themselves due to various vulnerabilities. Our policy prioritises the rights and dignity of these individuals, ensuring they receive the necessary support and protection.

Key Principles

(1) Definition of Adults at Risk

An adult at risk is defined as someone who meets the following criteria:
(a) Is unable to safeguard their own well-being, property, or rights.
(b) Is at risk of harm or abuse.
Faces vulnerability due to factors such as: Disability, Mental health conditions, Illness, Physical or mental frailty.

We take a proactive role in identifying individuals who may be at risk and working in collaboration with appropriate agencies to ensure they receive the necessary care.

(2) Multi-Agency Approach

Our policy supports the Multi-Agency Approach, ensuring that we work closely with external bodies such as local authorities, NHS, and Police Scotland. These organizations form Adult Protection Committees (APCs), which oversee and monitor the local protection of adults at risk. This cooperative approach allows for more comprehensive and effective protection for vulnerable individuals.

(3) Right to Protection.

Every adult at risk has an inherent right to be safe. Lerue Healthcare’s core belief is that no adult should face harm or abuse, and it is our responsibility to ensure that individuals who cannot safeguard themselves receive the protection they deserve. We prioritize this through tailored care services, risk assessments, and by following legal obligations set forth in the Adult Support and Protection Act.

Support Services

  1. Advocacy
    We recognize that vulnerable adults may struggle to access necessary resources. In compliance with the law, we work alongside councils and other agencies to provide advocacy services, ensuring that adults at risk can voice their concerns and access essential support such as social care, mental health services, and medical attention.
  2. Financial Harm Prevention
    Lerue Healthcare is aware of the risk of financial exploitation faced by vulnerable individuals. In partnership with local Adult Protection Committees, we support the efforts of Financial Harm sub-groups that aim to protect adults from financial harm through awareness programs, monitoring, and reporting strategies.
  3. Reporting Harm
    We encourage the public and our team members to report any suspected harm or abuse. Timely reporting of suspected harm is crucial to safeguarding adults and initiating appropriate interventions. This can be done by contacting local authorities such as:

Reporting to Local Authorities

  • The North Larnarkshire – Adult Protection Committee, Region House, 9 High Parick Street, Hamilton, ML3 7ES. Teleohone: 0169 889 4137
  • Social work department during office hours please contact: Airdrie: 0123 675 7000 | Bellshill: 0169 834 6666 | Coatbridge: 0123 662 2100 | Cumbernauld: 0123 663 8700 | Motherwell: 0169 833 2100 | Wishaw: 0169 834 8200
  • Out of Hour Social Service Emmergency Services Team: 0800 121 4114
  • Clackmannanshire Council daytime: 0125 972 7010 | Evenings/Weekends: 0178 647 0500
  • Stirling Council: Daytime 0178 640 4040 | Evening and weekends-01786470500
  • Falkirk council daytime 01324506070 | Evening and weekends-01786470500
  • Policy Scotland: 999

Code of Practice

The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 Code of Practice provides detailed guidance on safeguarding vulnerable adults. It outlines the roles and responsibilities of Lerue Healthcare staff, external agencies, and other partners involved in adult protection. By adhering to this code, we ensure that our practices are in line with the latest legislation and policy developments, helping us provide the best possible care and protection to at-risk adults.

Implementation and Continuous Improvement

By continuously reviewing and updating our practices, we strive to provide the highest standards of care and protection for adults at risk. Lerue Healthcare is fully committed to implementing the Scottish Government’s Adult Support and Protection Improvement Plan (2019-2022). This plan outlines key areas for improvement, including:

  • Enhancing the effectiveness of adult protection services.
  • Raising public awareness of the rights of vulnerable adults.
  • Promoting a culture of safeguarding across all levels of our organisation.

Summary

Lerue Healthcare’s Adult Support and Protection Policy underscores our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults. By adopting a multi-agency approach, offering crucial support services, and encouraging public awareness, we aim to prevent harm and abuse. We ensure that all adults at risk under our care receive the necessary protection and dignity they deserve. Through collaborative partnerships and adherence to Scotland’s legal framework, Lerue Healthcare is dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment for all.