Laws and Guidance – 11. Definitions of a Child at Risk and an Adult at Risk

The Wales Safeguarding Procedures Glossary has the following definitions:

Child at Risk describes an individual under the age of 18 years who is experiencing or is at risk of abuse, neglect or other kinds of harm; and who has needs for care and support (whether or not the authority is meeting any of those needs). When a child has been reported under section 130 of the Social Services and Well-being Act 2014, the local authority shall make, or cause to be made, such enquiries as they consider necessary to enable them to decide whether they should take any action to safeguard or promote the child’s welfare under section 47 of the Children Act (1989).

Adult at Risk describes anyone over 18 years of age who is experiencing or is at risk of abuse or neglect and has needs for care and support (whether or not the authority is meeting any of those needs), and as a result of those needs is unable to protect himself or herself against the abuse or neglect or the risk of it. (Section 126 of the Social Services and Well-being Act 2014)