Spotting warning signs of abuse

Warning signs that can help employers recognise and identify abuse in the workplace, have been detailed in a research report published by the Independent Safeguarding Authority, the body responsible for making decisions about who should be barred from working with vulnerable adults and children.

The ISA has dealt with thousands of referrals from concerned employers since its formation in 2008, and has published its first piece of research based on examination of a wide range of abuse cases.

Findings reveal some common warning signs and indicators of risk that have clear implications for how employers go about creating a safe environment, raise awareness and encourage vigilance.

Warning signs are closely related to specific types of mistreatment, such as financial abuse which may be indicated by:

• disappearance of small amounts of money
• previous convictions for  theft
•  failure to complete documentation and protocols regarding the handling of money.

ISA Chief Executive Adrian McAllister said: “We are in a unique position to use our experience to support the development of workplace safeguarding policy and practice.

“The aim of the research was to identify the lessons that could be learned from cases referred to the ISA. It is hoped that these findings can be used to support employers in their employment decisions and ongoing safeguarding practice.”

The full research report is available for download here.