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What to do and who to contact?

The AEA helpline
is run by specially trained staff and volunteers, and provides confidential support and advice for people who have been abused or know someone who may be suffering abuse. Available weekdays 9am-5pm on freephone 0808 808 8141.  more...  
Social Services/Social Work department
The central telephone number for your local social services or social work department (part of the local council) is in the phone book. Alternatively, you can find social services information on your local council website.  DirectGov will point you in the right direction for any council in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.  However, arrangements vary by country.  In England and Wales you should say that you want to talk about an Adult Protection issue (both these countries have special arrangements in place).  In Scotland you should speak to your social work department and explain that you are concerned about being abused, or about the abuse of someone else.  
Police
If you think a crime has been committed, report it to the police immediately. In an emergency, call 999; otherwise, call your local station (see phone book, or find your local force at www.police.uk). The Police can also offer advice regarding safety at home and in the community, and may refer people to the linked Victim Support scheme (tel. 0845 30 30 900), staffed by trained volunteers.
Social Care inspection bodies
If you have concerns about bad practices or abuse in a care home or by domicilary care services, contact the appropriate organisation. 

In England, it is the Commission for Social Care Inspection (tel. 0845 015 0120); 
In Scotland, it is the Scottish Care Commission (tel: 0845 603 0890)
In Wales, it is the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales (tel. 01443 848450); and 
In Northern Ireland, the Northern Ireland Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety - Social Services Inspectorate (tel. 0289 052 0500).
General Practitioners/practice nurses/dentists
You can speak, in confidence, to your GP, practice nurse or dentist if you are being harmed. If you know an older person who needs medical attention or seems to be emotionally upset, talk to them about seeing their GP or, with their permission, talk to a doctor/practice nurse on their behalf. A GP or dentist may also notice physical signs of abuse.
Carers UK UK-wide organisation run by carers and working to support carers. CarersLine tel. 0808 808 7777 (Wednesday, Thursday 10am-12pm and 2-4pm). Carers UK, 20-25 Glasshouse Yard, London EC1A 4JT, tel. 020 7490 8818 (office). Carers Wales, River House,Ynys Bridge Court, Gwaelod-y-Garth, Cardiff CF15 9SS, tel. 0292 081 1370; Carers Northern Ireland, 58 Howard Street, Belfast BT1 6PJ, tel. 0289 043 9843.
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