There are different kinds of abuse, but it's always about having power and control over someone.

Examples of abuse include:

• not caring for someone properly (neglect)
• pressuring someone to give away money or property (financial abuse)
• psychological (for example threats, harassment or forcing someone to live somewhere they do not want to)
• physical (for example violence)
• sexual

Contact Dorset police if you think a crime has been committed.

If the abuse or neglect happened at an NHS hospital or while someone was at a clinic, you should contact the manager of that service first.

We will help in other cases of abuse and neglect, including if an older or vulnerable adult has been treated badly in a care home or by a carer.

The first step is to contact us, giving us much detail as you can.