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Protective Services for Adults is based upon a legal mandate that the county is responsible for assuring that disabled adults are protected from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Adults who may be in need of protection are persons with disabilities, which have incapacitated them so that they are unable to take care of themselves, and who have no one able, or willing to assist them with the care they need. When a report of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation is received, a social worker visits the adult and other involved parties to assess the situation. After assessing the situation, the worker attempts to identify resources available to alleviate the neglect, abuse, or exploitation. In extreme cases of adult abuse, neglect, or exploitation, court action will be taken to remove the adult from his or her living situation or to force a caretaker to provide the necessary services. The agency also offers protective services to those disabled adults in institutions who are in need of medical treatment but are unable to give informed consent. The agency also assists in identifying a guardian for incompetent individuals who have no one available or willing to assume this responsibility.
A social worker is available even after regular working hours to intervene and assure that adults who are at risk are protected.
If you suspect that an adult is being abused, neglected or exploited contact the Department of Social Services at (919) 705-1774.
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