Protectng the vulnerable in our society

Sadly, it came as no surprise to me to see front page headlines, once again, about the abuse of care workers in relation to the finances of those in their care. Unfortunately cases like those cited, whilst far from being the norm, are all too common. I well remember from my own brief time at MENCAP, staff buying ingredients to suit their own needs when taking college residents shopping for food to cook meals in their supported living accommodation.  I also recall an incident of a care worker buying clothes for themselves on a shopping trip, with the resident's own money. On a more regular basis, when carers are charged with accompanying those in their care on outings, to the local pub for example, it is not uncommon for the location to be of the carers' choice, and to see those residents with learning difficulties huddled in a corner, whilst the 'carers' are all having a jolly good time together. On a personal note, I was asked last year to support a young adult with learning difficulties, where concerns had been raised over finances. On digging deeper found that I myself was then put under investigation for Safeguarding issues, and was eventually told that if the person concerned chose to give their money away that was their entitlement. That's all very well, but where was the concern over possible coercion and bullying? Those with learning difficulties are amongst the most vulnerable in our society, and we must all be vigilant in protecting them, not just from those who care for them, but also in some cases, relatives who wish to take advantage. I would like to reiterate however, that there are many care workers and relatives of those with long term disabilities who offer support day in, day out, with the utmost care and consideration, providing a necessary lifeline, often in the most difficult circumstances, and with very little reward. They deserve our admiration, and we should be careful not to tar them all with the same brush.