Safeguarding: A study of the effectiveness of arrangements to safeguard adults from abuse found that councils with higher overall quality ratings are more likely to have better safeguarding practices in place. This resulted in less abuse and more support to those who experienced abuse.

The report will feed in to the current consultation on No Secrets, the Department of Health's guidance on responding to adult abuse.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'People with dementia are particularly vulnerable to abuse, through neglect, poor quality care and discrimination. This report shows that people already contending with poor quality care are being let down by ineffective safeguards against abuse.

The abuse of vulnerable adults is an unacceptable violation of their human rights and can be prevented. Care staff need specialist dementia training, guidance on safeguarding people and strong leadership. There must also be a robust regulation system in place.

Alzheimer's Society will be contributing to the current consultation on the No Secrets guidance to ensure the needs of people with dementia are met.'

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society