Recognising abuse, neglect and inappropriate conduct

Forms of abuse and neglect

Abuse can be physical (including unreasonable use of force), sexual, psychological or emotional, or financial (such as stealing or pressuring someone for money). Neglect is failing to provide the care a person needs. Using restrictive practices — such as restraint — inappropriately is also a serious concern. Abuse can come from staff, other residents, family or visitors.

Signs to watch for

Unexplained bruises, cuts or fractures; fear or withdrawal around a particular person; sudden changes in mood or behaviour; missing money or belongings; poor hygiene, untreated pressure injuries, weight loss or dehydration; a person being kept away from activities or people they want to see.

What to do

Make sure the person is safe and get medical help if they need it — call 000 in an emergency. Tell your supervisor or manager straight away and record what you saw and heard, as your provider's incident management system requires. Report suspicions and allegations too — you don't need proof.

Don't confront the person you suspect or investigate yourself. Under the Code of Conduct, not raising a concern about violence, abuse or neglect is unacceptable behaviour.