ABUSE ON THE INCREASE

3.17.27pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 6th Sep 2007

Cabinet Member for Kent Adult Services conceded at Full Council that abuse of vulnerable people is on the increase in Kent.

At todays (Thursday 6 September) Full Council George Koowaree, Member for Ashford East, asked the Cabinet Member for Kent Adult Services whether there has been an increase in domiciliary care adult protection cases or complaints from clients, to explain the current system of checks on home care assistants, and advise if there are any plans to strengthen those checks?"

In response the Cabinet Member agreed with George that there is an increase in reported abuse of vulnerable people in their own houses. He described the current system of checks and the plans to strengthen the system by working closely with CSCI.

George later said "We were told of the introduction of a national Vetting and Barring Scheme in October 2008."

"But, with abuse on the increase is a 13 month delay in a better system of vetting and monitoring really acceptable?" He argued "Without doubt we need better local safeguards now!"

National Vetting and Barring Scheme - a new disclosure check to determine whether that individual is unsuitable to work in the relevant sector It will be applicable to all individuals seeking employment (whether paid or unpaid) with children or adults at risk.

Details of the full question and answer are available on the Kent Lib Dems website ' County Council Questions' page.

Related Link:

County Council Questions.