Adult protection committees in Grampian seek convener
Date Added - 31/03/09
An independent convener is being sought to oversee three newly formed adult protection committees in Grampian and provide a consistent approach to the care and support of adults at risk of harm in the north-east of Scotland.
Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council and Moray Council established the committees in response to the duties imposed on councils and their partners by the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007. Guidance on the establishment of adult protection committees was issued in October 2008.
Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council's social work and housing committee, Councillor Gurudeo Saluja, said: "Most adults with mental health problems, physical or learning disabilities or other needs live their lives safely, either independently or with assistance from a carer.
"However, a small number of adults who depend on someone may experience conflict and the Adult Support and Protection Act has been updated to allow councils to further protect adults at risk.
"Establishing adult protection committees and an independent convener will provide a consistent approach across the whole of Grampian and enhance the excellent services all authorities and agencies provide for adults in need."
Councillor Lee Bell, chairman of Moray Council's health and social care services committee, said: "We must do all we can to care for vulnerable adults and the three committees set up in Grampian will help to protect the small number of adults who may be experiencing problems."
The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 was passed by the Scottish Parliament in February 2007 and implemented by the Scottish Government on October 29, 2008.
The process included the introduction of a number of new duties for councils to improve and create new services for adults at risk of harm, including the formation of adult protection committees.
Membership includes representatives from the respective councils, NHS Grampian, the Care Commission, Grampian Police and the independent and voluntary sector.
The role of adult protection committees in Grampian is to monitor and advise relevant agencies on adult protection procedures to ensure that all partners work together effectively.
A biennial report will be submitted to the Scottish Government on the progress of each adult protection committee as well as regular reports to relevant groups.
The convener of Grampian's adult protection committees will chair the Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray adult protection committees to ensure they operate in accordance with the Adult Support and Protection Act.
It is anticipated that the convener may be required to commit to two days per month per committee although additional hours may be required. The post will be appointed for two years in the first instance The closing date for applications is April 17.
To avoid any potential conflict of interest, the convener of Grampian's adult protection committees must not be an elected member or officer of the local authority.
If you have experience of adult protection issues and would like more information about the role please visit http://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/about/departments/hsw_APC.asp
