How can we recognise and understand the needs of adults experiencing exploitation? A new Research in Practice resource aims to support colleagues across adult social care to build knowledge and formulate responses.
Exploitation involves the abuse of power and control held by a person or group over an individual to manipulate and maltreat them, frequently for the purpose of personal gain. Exploitation can manifest in numerous ways, which may co-exist and overlap. Individual experiences of exploitation can differ, along with the responses they receive from services.
Responding effectively to exploitation involves increasing awareness and recognition, preventing harm, disrupting perpetrators, and providing support to those experiencing or recovering from abuse. It requires attention to multiple layers of potential need and presents boundary-spanning opportunities to offer care and support.
The new resource introduces themes around the exploitation of adults, particularly those who experience multiple needs and exclusions. It aims to support colleagues across social care as we work together to strengthen our response to a complex and emerging area of practice. Three sections cover:
- Understanding the exploitation of adults
- Intersectional experiences around exploitation
- Responding to the exploitation of adults
Reflective questions for each key area encourage readers to stimulate conversation and to consider opportunities to strengthen their own practice responses. A person-centred and relational approach is essential to supporting positive outcomes.
Adult exploitation
This resource provides an introduction to the exploitation of adults, particularly those who experience multiple needs and exclusions.
Continue the conversation
As part of our ongoing work, we are keen to hear from services developing innovative responses to adult exploitation. Get in touch if you would like to be involved.
Exploitation
Exploitation refers to where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or adult in exchange for something. It can take many forms including sexual, financial and criminal exploitation. Local authorities have a responsibility to safeguard children, young people and adults from exploitation.
Tackling Child Exploitation Support Programme
The Tackling Child Exploitation Support Programme supported local areas to develop an effective strategic response to child exploitation and threats from outside the family home.
Adult exploitation
This resource provides an introduction to the exploitation of adults, particularly those who experience multiple needs and exclusions. It aims to support readers across social care specialisms as we work together to formulate effective service responses.