A Special Program for Vulnerable Adults

Since 1983, Somerset County Board of Social Services has taken the lead in providing services to vulnerable adults. The passage of the Adult Protective Services Act (P.L. 1993, C. 249 C. 52: 27d - 406) and the Board's official designation as the provider of Adult Protective Services in Somerset County reinforce this commitment. The goal of the Protective Services Program is to provide "Vulnerable Adults" who live in the community the specific services they need so they can continue to reside in the community free from risk or harm. In all cases, trained Social Workers work directly with the client in ways that both respect the individual's right to self-determination and afford protection. While our primary goal is to keep the client in the community, at times institutional placement may be necessary. Such placement is only considered when community care is not possible.

Key Components of the Adult Protective Service Act

• Voluntary reporting of potential clients
• Immunity from civil and criminal liability for individuals who make "good faith" reports
• Investigations begin within 72 hours of the report
• Greater access given to protective service social workers in completing investigations
• Emergency and Non-emergency protection orders available, when essential, through the court system
• Clients accepted into the Protective Service Program are eligible for services without regard to income or resources

Who is Serviced?

Somerset County residents who are:

• Age 18 and over
• Living in the community
• Unable to act in their own best interest
• Without sufficient help from family and friends to adequately meet their needs
• The individual's Health and/or safety is at risk if assistance is not provided
• At risk of financial exploitation

Our Response

• Protective Service referrals are investigated within 72 hours
• Emergency situations receive special attention - depending upon the nature of the referral, a response can be initiated immediately

What We Can Do:

Investigate reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and help establish a safe environment

• Assist clients in receiving medical care
• Assist with financial concerns/bill paying
• Provide alternative housing
• Assist in obtaining home care services
• Provide Transportation
• Link clients with other community services

Examples of those served:

• A person unwilling or unable to obtain necessary medical care
• Someone who forgets to pay bills because of confusion or impairment
• A mentally impaired individual who is unable to maintain his or her housing or keep a job
• A handicapped person left alone and without supervision or care
• An elderly person in crisis
• A person being financially exploited

Age Groups	Adults
Community Services	Basic Needs / Assistance Financial Assistance / Referrals Housing / Shelter
Health Services	Medical Medical / Health Needs
Areas Served	Somerset County

Last Updated: 05/01/18