And the authorities believe this is just a fraction of the actual incidents taking place.

A local councillor is now calling on victims to come forward and report the crimes – whether it’s physical, financial or emotional abuse.

And he is hoping to increase public awareness of the problem.

Renfrewshire Council’s adult protection committee has seen an increase in referrals of adults who have been the victims of abuse which takes many forms, from neglect, physical and sexual harm, to self harm and financial abuse.

In the first nine months of last year there were more than 1,200 referrals in the Renfrewshire area alone.

Committee member Councillor Derek Bibby believes this figure does not give a true picture of the problem.

Cllr Bibby, who represents Johnstone, North Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch, told the Gazette: “The agencies which investigate abuse of adults believe that it is significantly under reported when compared with the number of referrals of children who have possibly been abused which, is four times that of adults.

“I think that one of the reasons for this is that adults and older people are often reluctant to come forward as they are fearful or embarrassed particularly if they have been taken in by unscrupulous traders.

“While progress has been made in the last five years in bringing this problem to the attention of the general public, there is, by comparison with child protection, less public awareness.

“I would suggest that the public is sometimes less sympathetic, as some of the victims of adult abuse may be suffering from related conditions, such as mental health difficulties or alcohol and drug related problems, which are seen to contribute to the problem.” He reminded people that anyone could fall victim to abuse at any time.

“I would urge anyone who has been a victim or any member of the public who knows of someone who has been affected in this way to come forward and report it to the police or Renfrewshire Council’s social work department,” Councillor Bibby added. Renfrewshire Council and Police Scotland have produced advice for what to do if they suspect abuse or harm to a vulnerable adult or older person.

Trading standards has also produced leaflets on what to do when people receive visitors on their doorstep. The leaflets explain the dangers of distraction burglary, bogus callers and high pressure sales people. The pamphlets also provide tips to people in dealing with unwelcome visitors. The best advice is not to open your door at all until you are comfortable and reassured.

Cllr Bibby added: “The incidence of adult abuse is becoming more apparent and we must continue to work with the public to help protect adults and older people. Financial abuse of adults is a national issue of major importance with the sums involved at a UK level of some 3.6 billion annually.” “The issue of adult abuse was highlighted at the Renfrewshire Adult Protection Conference held in February and attended by more than 150 people. Anything that can be done locally to raise public awareness of this issue is to be welcomed.”