The Argyll and Bute Adult Protection Committee has appointed four new chairs to area development forums, who are working together to encourage people to act when they think an adult is being harmed, neglected or taken advantage of.

In Bute and Cowal, Viv Hamilton, who is locality manager with NHS HIGHLAND, will chair the local area development forum. In Helensburgh and Lomond, the chair will be Inspector Claire Miller of Police Scotland, in Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands, Kate MacAulay, who is Clinical Services Manager with the Mid Argyll Community Hospital and Integrated Care Centre , will chair the local area development forum  and In Oban, Lorn and the Isles, Temporary Inspector Mark Stephen of Police Scotland, will be the local forum chair.

The forum comprises representatives of Argyll and Bute Council, NHS Highland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland.

The Argyll and Bute Adult Protection Committee Chair, Bill Brackenridge said, “The Adult Protection Committee was formed in recognition of the fact that every individual has a right to a life free from fear, to be treated with dignity and respect and not be forced to do anything against their will. However some adults may be particularly vulnerable to harm because of illness, disability or frailty.

“Most adults with a mental or physical illness, learning disability, or other disability live their lives comfortably, safely and independently.  They are able to protect themselves and safeguard their own interests. Others live their lives with the assistance of caring relatives, friends, paid carers, or volunteers.

“Unfortunately some people will experience harm such as physical abuse, psychological harm or exploitation of their finances or property because they are unable to protect themselves.”

If you are being harmed or if you are worried that someone you know is being harmed or neglected please tell someone. The different services that exist to support and protect people can only act when they know that someone may be at risk.

If you believe that someone is in urgent need of help to keep them safe please contact the Police on 999. If you want to report harm you think, or know, is happening to someone, you can contact us on 01546 605517 or visit http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/adult-protection