How to report abuse of adults in Cumbria

If you think an adult with care or support needs is being abused in any way, you should report this as a safeguarding concern.

Are you concerned about an adult in Cumbria with care and support needs, is being abused or neglected, or is at risk of? Maybe you are suffering abuse or neglect or think you are at risk? There are people who can help. You can tell Adult Social Care. 

If you can’t report abuse yourself, ask someone you trust to help you.

Family members, relatives, friends and neighbours all have an important part to play in keeping people safe. If you are concerned about someone, please don't keep it to yourself. Report it as soon as possible. You don’t have to give your details, and you won’t be in trouble if you are wrong. 

If you are at immediate risk of harm or a crime has been or you suspect will be committed, always contact the police by calling 999.

If the person lives in Cumberland

If the person lives in Allerdale, Carlisle or Copeland, contact Cumberland Council.

Contact the Cumberland Single Point of Access (SPA) team

If the person lives in Westmorland and Furness

If the person lives in Barrow, Eden or South Lakeland, contact Westmorland and Furness.

Contact the Westmorland and Furness Single Point of Access (SPA) team

If the person who you are concerned about does not live in Cumbria, you can contact the council for the area they live in to report a Safeguarding Concern to Adult Social Care, you can find the contact details of their local council on GOV.UK.

Find your local council - GOV.UK

If you're a professional making a referral

Read our guidance on how and when you should make a safeguarding referral, what information is needed and what happens after.

Making a Safeguarding Adults referral

If you are concerned about possible abuse or neglect in care

You should still report your concerns to the Adult Social Care team in your area. You can also contact the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

If you're a member of staff at a care home with concerns, you can also report it to the CQC.

If you are concerned about someone at your work place

The national Whistleblowing Helpline provides free help and advice to people who witness or have cause to suspect wrong doing at work but are not sure whether or how to raise their concern. They can be contacted as follows:

Telephone: 08000 724725
Email: enquiries@wbhelpline.org.uk