title: Safeguarding adults at risk understand neglect and how to promote care and compassion.
abstract: Officially, neglect is a form of abuse. Government guidance states that abuse can be 'neglect and acts of omission, including ignoring medical or physical care needs, failure to provide access to appropriate health, social care or educational services, the withholding of the necessities of life, such as medication, adequate nutrition and heating' ( Department of Health (DH) and Home Office 2000 ).
authors.affiliation: Risk of abuse, NHS Sussex, a fellow at the University of Brighton, and an independent consultant nurse.
authors.forename: Lynne
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Phair
authors.affiliation: City University, London, and chair of the RCN older people's forum.
authors.forename: Hazel
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Heath