Help and advice the financial abuse toolkit

Financial abuse is: “The unauthorised and improper use of funds, property or any resources belonging to another individual”.

The Care Act 2014 states that financial and material abuse includes:
•    Theft.
•    Fraud.
•    Internet scamming.
•    Coercion in relation to an adult’s financial affairs or arrangements, including in connection with wills, property, inheritance or financial transactions.
•    The misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits.

The Safeguarding Adults financial abuse toolkit is intended to be used by Adult Social Care & Health (ASC&H) staff, partner agencies, providers and members of the public.  It will provide them with the information they need to respond appropriately to suspected cases of financial abuse.

It is important that the indicators of financial abuse are recognised, so that safeguarding concerns can be raised appropriately.