Anti-abuse powers backed by MSPs

The new law comes after a report into a case in the Borders

MSPs have unanimously voted in favour of tough new powers to prevent the abuse of vulnerable adults.

The reforms are partly driven by a case in the Borders where a woman was persistently abused by her carers.

The new laws, which oblige local authorities to intervene where abuse is suspected, are aimed at ending the uncertainty over who takes charge.

In exceptional circumstances, a sheriff could permit a council to act without the consent of the adult at risk.

Most care workers back the change, but some feel the new measure goes too far.

MSPs argued that the new power would be used very rarely, if at all.

At risk

The new law also clarifies the rules over power of attorney - where control of assets can be transferred if an adult has become incapable of taking decisions.

It is thought 10,000 elderly people in Scotland face abuse of some sort each year.

Younger, vulnerable adults can also be at risk, as the Miss X Borders case showed.

Deputy Health Minister Lewis Macdonald said the adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Bill would help to limit all kinds of abuse by offering greater support and protection to adults at risk.

"It will do so by introducing greater investigative rights and placing duties on councils to investigate alleged harm or abuse, as well as a range of post-assessment interventions," he said.