Discriminatory abuse

Discriminatory abuse happens when a person is treated unfairly, excluded, harassed, or disadvantaged because of who they are. It can affect anyone and can occur in care settings, workplaces, communities, public services, or personal relationships.

Discriminatory abuse is a form of abuse recognised within adult safeguarding and is closely linked to equality, diversity, human rights, and dignity. It may be based on a person's age, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy, or maternity.

Discriminatory abuse is unequal or unfair treatment because of a protected characteristic. It may include:

• verbal abuse, insults, slurs, or derogatory comments
• bullying, harassment, or intimidation
• isolation or exclusion from activities, services, or opportunities
• ignoring a person's cultural, religious, or communication needs
• providing a poorer standard of care or support
• denying access to services or making it harder for someone to participate because of their disability, race, religion, age, or other protected characteristic
• policies or practices that appear fair but place certain groups at a disadvantage
• discriminatory abuse may occur as a single incident or be part of a pattern of behaviour over time

Why it can be difficult to recognise

Discriminatory abuse is often hidden and may be mistaken for another type of abuse or neglect. Safeguarding data suggests it is identified far less often than other forms of abuse, which means it can sometimes be overlooked.

There are several reasons why it can be difficult to recognise:

• people may feel embarrassed, ashamed, or worried about reporting discrimination
• some individuals may have experienced discrimination for many years and come to see it as "normal"
• communication barriers can make it difficult for people to explain their experiences
• professionals may feel uncomfortable discussing topics such as race, culture, faith, disability, sexuality, or identity
• discriminatory abuse often exists alongside other forms of abuse, such as neglect, emotional abuse, or organisational abuse, making it less obvious

For professionals, maintaining professional curiosity is important. This means looking beyond the immediate issue, asking questions, and considering whether discrimination may be contributing to an adult's experience of harm.

Signs and indicators of discriminatory abuse

The signs of discriminatory abuse can vary but may include:

• a person appearing withdrawn, anxious, fearful, angry, or isolated
• reluctance to access services or engage with support
• repeated complaints that their needs, beliefs, culture, or identity are not being respected
• different or poorer treatment compared with others using the same service
• exclusion from activities, decisions, or opportunities without a clear reason
• failure to make reasonable adjustments for a disability
• derogatory language, jokes, stereotypes, or negative comments directed at the person

Repeated barriers to accessing information, communication, or support. No single sign confirms discriminatory abuse, but concerns should always be taken seriously.