Adult Protective Services (APS)
Purpose: APS receives and evaluates reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation of disabled adults (age 18 and older). Services are designed to identify, remedy and prevent problems that result in such cases. APS strives to protect the disabled adult while acknowledging the client's right to self-determination.
Program Services:
- Evaluation of disabled adult situations.
- Support for caregivers of disabled adults.
- Referrals to appropriate agencies to stop abuse, neglect or exploitation.
Eligibility Requirements:
The victim must be a disabled adult 18 years of age or older who is incapacitated. The adult must be abused, neglected or exploited at the present time and in need of protective services.
To make an Adult Protective Services report, call Adult Services Intake at 828-694-6241. (After hours call 828-697-4911 for emergencies.)
Who should report? It is the law that any person who has reasonable cause to believe that a disabled person is in need of Protective Services must report the case to the county Social Services Department (N.C.G.S. 108A-102). The reporter's identity is confidential! Anonymous reports are accepted.
How are reports made? Telephone, write, or visit the Henderson County Department of Social Services when you have information about a disabled adult being abused, neglected, or exploited. In order to insure a timely and appropriate intervention, please be prepared to provide the following information pertaining to the disabled adult:
- Name, Age, and Address of the disabled Adult
- Name and Address of Caretaker (if applicable)
- Nature of abuse, neglect, and/or exploitation
- Other Pertinent Information
Resources:
