Shuswap North Okanagan

How do you know if there is a problem to report?
Abuse is the deliberate mistreatment of an adult which causes physical, mental, or emotional harm or damage to their property or their assets. There are different types of abuse, and it can happen to anyone, at any age, in any culture, regardless of gender, income, or religion. Neglect is the failure to provide necessary care, assistance, guidance, or attention causing the person physical, mental, or emotional harm. Self-neglect is when an adult fails to take care of their own basic needs to the point that causes the person physical, mental, or emotional harm, or significant loss of their assets.

How do I report abuse or neglect?
Your first step is to decide if the situation is an immediate emergency that requires a call to 9-1-1. If you discover a crime or dangerous situation is occurring with an adult, call 9-1-1 to get help immediately. If you have been a victim of a crime or you are concerned about a crime against someone you know, contact your local police. Interior Health is also a designated agency and responds to reports of adult abuse and neglect.

Report to Interior Health
All health authorities in British Columbia and Community Living BC are Designated Agencies. These “Designated Agencies” have the authority and responsibility to receive and act on reports of abuse, neglect or self-neglect of “vulnerable” adults who are unable to seek support and assistance on their own due to any condition that affects the adult’s ability to act or to make decisions.