Helping you to understand Adult Support and Protection – Referral Investigations

This information tries to answer some of the questions you might have if you have been contacted by a member of the Adult Protection Team. If there is anything you are not sure about, you can speak to the social worker who visited you, or an Advocate.

Why has someone referred me to Adult Support and Protection?

Adult Support and Protection have received a referral from a professional or someone in your community who is worried about you. They think that you may be at risk of harm.

What do they want?

The Social Worker and other professional visiting may ask you questions. You do not need to answer these questions, however, it is helpful if you do. The questions will help them to tell if you may be at risk of harm. This means someone may be hurting you or treating you badly. No one should be hurting you and if they are, you need to tell the Social Worker. They will find ways of keeping you safe.

Can I have someone with me?

Yes, you might want to have a friend, carer or relative with you when asked questions. You can also have an Advocate with you. The Social Worker will talk to you about Advocacy and how they may be able to support you.

What is an Advocate?

An Advocate is someone who will help you say what you want to say. They will not tell you what to do but may give useful information to you. In Moray, Circles Advocacy provides support to have your voice heard – you can contact them on 01343 559546 or text 07785 381500. More information about Circles Advocacy can be found online using this link: www.circlesnetwork.org.uk

What happens next?

The Social Worker may have other professionals or people they want to ask questions to. They do not need to ask your permission to speak to the other people, however, they will tell you who they will be speaking to so that you know who they are speaking to. 

The Social Worker will then update you once they have completed their investigation. They will let you know what happens next. It may be that they recommend further support and help for you. The Social Worker will also let you know if an Adult Protection Case Conference is required. 

This is a meeting to discuss the harm you may be experiencing, and to agree a plan to support you. Your Social Worker will talk to you about what a Case Conference is.