Adult Social Care Glossary, v 0.6

14.17 Self-neglect This covers a wide range of behaviour neglecting to care for one's personal hygiene, health or surroundings and includes behaviour such as hoarding. It should be noted that self-neglect may not prompt a section 42 enquiry. An assessment should be made on a case by case basis. A decision on whether a response is required under safeguarding will depend on the adult's ability to protect themselves by controlling their own behaviour. There may come a point when they are no longer able to do this, without external support.

Where someone demonstrates lack of care for themselves and or their environment and refuses assistance or services. It can be long-standing or recent.

Types of self-neglect: Lack of self-care to an extent that it threatens personal health and safety Neglecting to care for one's personal hygiene, health or surroundings Inability to avoid self-harm Failure to seek help or access services to meet health and social care needs Inability or unwillingness to manage one's personal affairs

Covers a wide range of behaviour; neglecting to care for one's personal hygiene, health or surroundings and includes behaviour such as hoarding.