Vulnerable adults are to receive greater support and protection as the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 today comes into force.

Under the new act local authorities will now be expected to make enquiries and investigate suspected cases of harm or neglect of adults, while bodies like the NHS and the police must cooperate in investigations.

Adult protection committees will also be set up across Scotland to oversee and monitor support and protection activities for vulnerable adults, while a range of protection orders will be introduced. New protection orders include assessment orders, removal orders and banning orders.

Commenting on the new act, Public Health Minister Shona Robison said: "This sends a clear message that harm and neglect against adults most at risk in our society today is not acceptable and will not be tolerated in Scotland.

"Importantly, these new measures will support effective early intervention where it is necessary, with the emphasis on preventing harm happening in the first place.

"It can sometimes be difficult to understand and acknowledge that some adults can suffer ill-treatment and neglect, but it does happen - in families and in regulated settings.  Although we cannot eradicate all risk, we can reduce that risk. 

"This new legislation means that these often hidden problems can be tackled sensitively and constructively."

Age Concern Scotland chief executive David Manion added: "This represents a landmark piece of legislation that will clarify the people and processes for dealing with harm against adults, including older people, who may for many reasons be less able to protect themselves.

"This puts Scotland at the forefront of nations dealing with this issue."

A National Centre for Excellence for Adult Support and Protection, aimed at being a catalyst for change, is also set to be created.