Working together to safeguard vulnerable adults

Vulnerable adults who lack mental capacity will benefit from a joined-up approach in responding to concerns about those taking decisions on their behalf and the way they are protected from abuse, according to guidelines published by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) today.

The guidelines outline the respective roles the OPG, the Court of Protection and local authorities play so that areas of overlap can be harmonised. These agencies will work together to help prevent and respond to abuse, by sharing information and following principles laid down in the guidelines.

The protocol between the OPG and local authorities sets out a framework for reporting concerns and working together on investigations.

The protocol is available on the OPG's website.