About ACT
The Ann Craft Trust (ACT) was founded by Dr Ann Craft in 1992 under the name of NAPSAC - the National Association for the Protection from Sexual Abuse of Adults and Children with Learning Disabilities.
Recent studies have shown that around 60% of adults with learning disabilities have experienced abuse at some point in their lives. In addition to this there is also clear evidence to show that disabled children are significantly more likely to be abused than children who are not disabled. This abuse may be sexual, emotional, physical, financial or neglect. This shocking statistic demonstrates the extent to which people with learning disabilities are victimised in our society.
ACT works to ensure that organisations that support people with learning disabilities are aware of abuse and protection issues. We provide services to raise professional awareness and also to increase the knowledge and skills of professionals who can then help reduce the risk of abuse and support people who have been abused. ACT services are used by a wide range of individuals and organisations including the police, the Crown Prosecution Service, social services departments, health professionals, direct support staff, social care professionals and parents and carers.
ACT provides a range of services to organisations in the statutory, independent and voluntary sectors. Our services include:
Advice and Information
We offer specialist advice on both general and specific issues relating to the protection of vulnerable adults and children. This service is free and is frequently used by parents and carers as well as professionals.
Training, Seminars, Workshops and Conferences
We have a large training team who deliver a range of programmes on salient issues such as abuse awareness, sexuality, investigative interviewing, supporting the victim and working with offenders. Our training is especially geared towards those working in health, police, social services, education, criminal justice system and the voluntary sector.
We also provide in-depth consultancy to organisations which ranges from updating organisational protection policies to script consultations for training and awareness videos.
The field of adult protection is a rapidly expanding area, this has been reflected in recent changes in government legislation. ACT's recent annual conference 'Is it abuse or just poor practice' echoed these changes by looking at the adult protection legislation debate. The conference brought together a diverse mix of professionals to discuss many areas including current legislation and its effect on the future of adult protection. The day provoked some lively debate and certainly gave all the delegates a great deal to think about.
Research, Publications, Bibliographies and Books
ACT has an active research team who have completed a number of research projects which are used to inform practice, training and publications. We have also published a range of books and resources which are invaluable to anyone working with vulnerable children and adults. Titles include, Training to Protect, Blowing the Whistle on the Abuse of Adults with Learning Disabilities, ACTing to Support Parents with Learning Disabilities, and It Could Never Happen Here.
Membership
ACT membership allows professionals to keep in touch with national and international developments, research and publications as well as providing a supportive network of professionals.
We have a number of exciting projects planned for 2008. Watch this space.
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