Background
Local procedures are largely designed to ensure practitioners apply local processes to support and protect adults at risk of harm. A number of unpublished reviews have identified that local procedures may require augmentation to support an adult at risk of harm when moving between local authority areas. This would clarify the transition arrangements when an adult at risk of harm is moving between areas in either a planned or spontaneous way.
This document therefore articulates the principles which should be considered by both local authority areas when an adult at risk of harm transfers between them. These principles have been prepared to support permanent changes of residence though they may be useful in guiding the exchange of information in relation to temporary changes in residence.
Where an adult moves on a temporary basis and is already known to be at risk of harm, arrangements for managing their care should be in accordance with Section 53 of the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 in relation to the definition of ‘council’. However where the original council retains the supportive and protective role this should be clarified and agreed between the agencies involved based upon the principles outlined in this document.
This strategic principles document is not of itself a procedure. It has been prepared to promote parity between all areas across Scotland in relation to the exchange of information regarding adults at risk of harm when they relocate to another local authority area. It is hoped that consideration of these principles within local procedures will assist in achieving this aim.
Purpose of the Principles
This document states the principles for effective information sharing regarding Adults at Risk of Harm where they are moving/have moved from one area to another with or without notice to relevant authorities, and are subject to an Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007:
- Pre- inquiry screening or
- Inquiry or,
- Investigation or,
- Protection Plan