Neglect and acts of omission
Councils are reviewing reports on rising adult safeguarding concerns, including neglect and acts of omission.
Adult safeguarding concerns, including neglect and acts of omission, are a key focus for councils following recent reports. In September 2026, a report to Hackney's Adults Health and Integration Scrutiny Commission revealed that safeguarding concerns in the borough tripled to 2,798 in 2025/26. This increase has placed pressure on frontline services, according to Claire Solly, Independent Chair of the City and Hackney Safeguarding Adults Board.
Also in September 2026, Richmond upon Thames' Safeguarding Adults Board Annual Report indicated that neglect and acts of omission accounted for 25% of adult safeguarding concerns in 2025-26. This followed self-neglect, which was the most prevalent form of abuse at 28%, as stated by Fiona Martin, Chair of the Safeguarding Adults Board.
Neglect and acts of omission refers to a category of concern within Adult Social Care, involving the failure to provide necessary care or attention to a vulnerable individual, leading to harm. This can include failing to meet basic needs, either intentionally or unintentionally.
Key facts
- Hackney's safeguarding concerns tripled to 2,798 in 2025/26, a report revealed in September 2026. Source
- In Richmond, neglect and acts of omission accounted for 25% of adult safeguarding concerns in 2025-26. Source
- Self-neglect was the most prevalent adult abuse in Richmond in 2025-26, at 28%. Source
- Claire Solly, CHSAB Chair, noted an increase in volume and complexity of adult safeguarding concerns. Source
- Fiona Martin, Safeguarding Adults Board Chair, stated self-neglect topped Richmond's abuse concerns. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.