This text provides an understanding of current professional practice in social and health care, examining abuse of vulnerable adults and the ways in which social policy, welfare services and practitioners may compound or alleviate vulnerability. Working with Vulnerable Adults develops a sound basis for understanding issues of risk, vulnerability and protection and investigates how agency policies and procedures may, often unintentionally, lead to the voice of service users being marginalised or unheard. Drawing on recent and established research about the protection of vulnerable adults, the book covers: * Social work, social care settings and vulnerable adults * The concept of abuse and adult protection * Using the law in adult protection * Professional and quality assurance issues * Assessment in social work with vulnerable adults * Dealing with and managing vulnerability, risk and abuse * Adults with mental health difficulties, long-term conditions and learning disabilities * Community abuse and asylum seekers Much contemporary social and health care practice with adults is concerned with issues of risk and protection. Working with Vulnerable Adults provides information and knowledge for students and practitioners who are interested in finding out more about this important field.