FREEPHONE Meridian Healthcare 'Safeguarding of Adults Line:

0800 131 3610

Meridian Healthcare takes any suggestion, allegation or proven abuse extremely seriously. Our policies and procedures are designed to protect those in our care.

Vulnerable adults may be abused or taken advantage of by those in a position of power over them.

Every adult has the right to:

  • A life free of fear
  • Be treated with dignity
  • Have their choices respected and not be forced to do anything against their will

Who may be at risk of abuse?

Many adults rely on other people to help them in their day to day living. This may be due to illness, disability, or frailty. They may be at risk from people they know such as a relative, friend, neighbour, paid carer or, less frequently, by a stranger.

Abuse may occur in their own home, in care homes or in day centres or hospitals

What do you mean by abuse?

Abuse can take many forms such as:

  • Hitting, slapping or pushing
  • Shouting or swearing which makes the person afraid
  • Unwanted touching, kissing or physical intimacy
  • Money being taken without consent or under pressure
  • Not being cared for properly or denied privacy, choice or social contact

What can you do if you suspect abuse?

If you know of a worrying situation, please do not ignore it. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Please contact your Care Centre Manager in the first instance to ensure that your concerns are addressed speedily.

Alternatively, you can contact our designated safeguarding of Adults (SAM) Manager, Bernice Priest. Bernice is responsible for co-ordinating investigations on all Safeguarding of Adults matters.

You can call FREE and in confidence. Ask to speak personally to Bernice Priest.

FREEPHONE Meridian Healthcare 'Safeguarding of Adults Line':

0800 131 3610

If you have contacted Meridian Healthcare's SAM Manager and you are still concerned that matters are not being dealt with speedily and professionally, there are other external agencies you can contact. Again all information provided will be treated in strictest confidence.

Organisations are listed below:

Action on Elder Abuse
Tel: 0808 808 8141

Age Concern
Tel: 0800 00 99 66

Or: your Local Authority Social Services Department
Or: Your local CSCI Office