Financial abuse within the care home sector remains a critical issue within the media, Government and the CQC. 2019 has already seen two serious cases of financial abuse within the adult social care sector, with it bringing costly fines, prison sentences and reputational damage for the organisation.
Providers need to keep a close eye on this area and ensure necessary staff training is maintained. The breach of trust and aftermath of these cases can have a devastating effect on a home and all staff who work there.
As well as the provider, it is crucial that care workers are alert to the types of financial abuse within a care home, so to report any safeguarding issue – either to their manager or to the Local Authority Safeguarding Team.