Residents are being asked about their understanding of adult abuse and if they know how to recognise it.
The consultation across Nottinghamshire is aimed at gauging how much the public know about adult abuse, what they could do about it and where to report any concerns.
Nottingham county council’s safeguarding adults board whose membership includes Newark and Sherwood CCG and NHS Bassetlaw CCG decided to consult people to find out if it needs to improve the way it communicates with the public.
It is responsible for protecting vulnerable adults who have been abused and preventing abuse.
According to its latest annual report for 2014-15 the upward trend in referrals had continued, with a 9% increase on the previous year.
There were 5,185 referrals and the majority of them were about vulnerable people over the age of 85. Most referrals also include women, the report said.
Allan Breeton, (pictured) the independent chairman of the board said: “It’s important that we find out what people already know about adult abuse and how to report it so we can determine how to further improve communication in this area.”
He said the board was keen to encourage people “to be the eyes and ears to help spot abuse so we can take action to protect adults who may be at risk.”
Results of the consultation will be discussed at the next board meeting.
Meanwhile Hampshire’s safeguarding adults board is staging a series of drop-in events next month as part of a drive to make “safeguarding everybody’s business”.
In 2014-15 it had 3,223 referrals, with the highest number in the over 65 age group.
The drop in events are being staged in Fareham, Andover, Aldershot and Lyndhurst and aim to bring together18 different organisations, including social care and voluntary groups as well the police and fire service.
It aims to ensure local services work together to tackle adult abuse and raise awareness of the problem.
