DISCLAIMER:

This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.

Simple terms explainer

Councils must make inquiries when an adult may be at risk of harm. This means that if there are concerns that an adult is experiencing abuse, neglect, or is otherwise unable to protect themselves, the council must investigate the situation. The purpose is to find out what is happening, assess any risks, and decide what action is needed to keep the adult safe. These inquiries are carried out carefully, respecting the adult’s rights and involving them as much as possible in decisions about their safety and wellbeing.

Legal status

Statutory


Duty category

Adult social care


Duty type

Compliance


Social determinant of health

Health and social care

Associated data returns

Adult Support and Protection Biennial Report
Submission to Scottish Government every two years. Evidences how local Adult Protection Committees have exercised their statutory functions to safeguard adults at risk, including achievements, challenges, and improvement activity.
Adult Support and Protection (ASP) National Minimum Dataset
Quarterly submission to Scottish Government. Provides data on adult protection referrals, inquiries, investigations, protection plans and protection orders, supporting oversight of how councils safeguard adults at risk of harm.

Bodies with shared interest

Police Scotland
Health Boards
Mental Welfare Commission
Adult Protection Committees
Social Work Scotland

Standards and frameworks


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