The Police Service of Northern Ireland has welcomed the publication of a Criminal Justice Inspection report examining adult safeguarding.

Detective Chief Superintendent Zoe McKee, head of the Public Protection Branch, said: "Abuse, exploitation and neglect can have a profound impact on adults at risk and their families and we welcome todays publication of the Criminal Justice Inspection report into adult safeguarding arrangements.

"The report has highlighted the knowledge and commitment of specialist staff which reflects the dedication of those who work in this challenging area of safeguarding. The report has also raised the need for consistency in identifying and responding to safeguarding concerns and for stronger oversight, training and quality assurance." McKee said joint work with Health and Social Care partners is under way to address the recommendations, adding: "Working jointly with our Health and Social Care partners, our Public Protection Branch officers are focusing on strengthening the quality assurance of adult safeguarding decisions and improving performance monitoring. We have also undertaken a review of our guidance. This work will ensure the recommendations of the report are suitably addressed to ensure adults at risk receive the best quality of care and service from a range of partners and those who offend against the most vulnerable are brought to justice."

Anyone with concerns about an adult at risk should call 999. For non-emergency policing matters, call 101. Safeguarding concerns can also be raised with the relevant Health and Social Care Trust, Victims Support NI or the Older Persons Commissioner's Office.