Who is entitled to report cases of vulnerable adult abuse?

Individuals who possess knowledge of cases involving vulnerable adult abuse have a responsibility to report their observations. This broad obligation means that any person who is aware of the situation, regardless of their professional or personal relationship to the victim, is empowered to take action. This is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults, as abuse can often go unreported without the vigilance of those around them.

The intent behind allowing "any individual" to report is to create a protective network around vulnerable adults, ensuring that reports can be made swiftly and by anyone who witnesses or suspects abuse. This approach fosters a community of vigilance and support, leveraging the awareness of a larger audience to shield vulnerable individuals from harm.

By mandating that any person with knowledge of abuse has the duty to report it, the system encourages proactive intervention and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in safeguarding the rights and welfare of vulnerable adults.