Financial Abuse of People Lacking Mental Capacity: A Report to the Dawes Trust

Abstract

Introduction, aims and methods Financial abuse is defined as harms that are perpetrated intentionally on victims by perpetrators to their financial benefit. Financial abuse of people lacking mental capacity is a complex phenomenon involving a wide range of possible victims and abusers who range from deliberate fraudsters to those who are misguided, ill-informed or incompetent in handling the victim’s affairs. Financial abuse of people lacking mental capacity is frequently hidden from public scrutiny and there is often little protection or redress for victims. This report addresses the nature, extent and contexts of such financial abuse and the relevant laws and safeguarding procedures.