2.2  Describe factors that may contribute to an individual being more vulnerable to abuse.

There are several factors that can put individuals more at risk of abuse, including:

• those who are elderly and frail
• an individual who has a learning difficulty, a physical disability or lacks mental capacity
• an individual who is dependent on someone else for their care and well-being may be too afraid of reporting abuse because they may fear that they will not be believed or the abuse will escalate
• a lack of support from others may lead to self-neglect, for example, an elderly individual may find it increasingly difficult to maintain their household
• isolation can mean that the individual lacks support and does not know whom they can approach if abuse is taking place
• communication difficulties and cultural or language barriers can make it difficult for an individual to communicate with others and share their concerns
• an individual who presents others with behaviours that challenge may be at risk if those around them do not know how to manage their behaviour effectively
• a poor workplace culture, inadequate staff supervision, a lack of resources and staff shortages can easily result in institutional abuse taking place
• addictions such as drug and alcohol abuse
• financial constraints may mean that the individual cannot afford the level of care that they or a loved one require