Types of abuse

Abuse can take many forms, but it always involves actions intended to harm someone. It is a serious breach of a person’s human and civil rights. Sometimes harm happens unintentionally, often because someone lacks the right training or knowledge. Regardless of intent, abuse is never acceptable.

There is no exhaustive definition of abuse, but government guidance identifies 10 main types:

• Physical abuse - causing physical harm or injury
• Psychological abuse - emotional harm, intimidation, or coercion
• Financial or material abuse - theft, fraud, or misuse of property or money
• Sexual abuse - any non-consensual sexual activity
• Neglect and acts of omission - failing to provide care or support
• Organisational abuse - poor care practices within institutions
• Self-neglect - neglecting one’s own health or wellbeing
• Domestic abuse - violence or controlling behaviour in relationships
• Modern slavery - exploitation through forced labour or trafficking
• Discriminatory abuse - harassment or harm based on Protected Characteristics 

Further resources 

The Social Care Institute for Excellence website explains more about the different types of abuse and some of the potential signs to look out for.