Financial Harm

Some adults are at risk of financial harm as, due to their vulnerabilities, they may not be able to look after their money or possessions.

Financial harm includes theft, fraud, pressure to hand over or sign over property or money, misuse of property or welfare benefits, stopping someone getting their money or possessions, or being scammed by rogue traders, online scams, by email or by post.

Anyone can be the culprit – a stranger over the phone, on the internet or on the doorstep. But it’s more likely to be someone known to them, such as a friend, relative or colleague.

Alison Lynch, Chair of the Grampian Adult Protection Financial Harm Group said – "Financial harm is one of the most common forms of harm reported to local adult protection units. It can have a significant impact on a vulnerable adult, not just on their finances, but also on their physical and mental health. Unpaid bills, having debts, taking out loans, or possessions going missing from their home, could all be signs of financial harm. Other signs could be that they look unkempt or thin, or has lost confidence, or are anxious or distressed."

If you are concerned that a vulnerable adult may be at risk of financial harm, please don’t ignore it – adult protection is everyone's business. You can report suspicious activity to your local council’s Adult Protection Unit, or if reporting a crime contact Police Scotland on 101. The matter will be dealt with sensitively and confidentially, and support given if needed.