Purpose – This paper seeks to reconcile society's need to apply strong sanctions to parents who are responsible for the murder of a disabled adult while also recognising the stresses present in their lives. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reviews six cases in which seven disabled...

This paper considers the emergence of adult protection as a significant issue for health and welfare professionals. A range of definitions and dilemmas are considered alongside a comprehensive review of how abuse is manifested. A brief review of the latest research is followed by principles of...

This paper reports the results of a study of the monitoring of adult protection referrals in 10 local authorities during six months in 1998. The issues are analysed at various levels. The information provides a useful window on the effectiveness of current policies and provides a baseline from...

The registration and inspection of residential care services for vulnerable adults rests with local government but in 2002 responsibility passes to the new Commission for Care Standards. This paper looks at how inspection units understand and respond to adult protection issues, considers how...

This article reports the results of a survey of local authorities, which asked about progress in responding to the Department of Health guidance, No Secrets. The findings of the survey suggest that the majority of local authorities are taking action in response to the guidance. However, there is...