The reason why this Whitley Bay monument is being bathed in purple this week

Evening walkers out in Whitley Bay last night might have noticed St. Mary's Lighthouse bathed in purple light.

The Tyneside landmark is being lit up this week to raise awareness on safeguarding adults.

It comes during National Safeguarding Adults Week and North Tyneside SAFE week, which is taking place from Monday, November 15 until Sunday, November 21.

The week's goal is to remind people the vital role they play in preventing abuse by spotting the signs and how to act if concerned about someone.

The theme for 2021 is 'Creating Safer Cultures' and looks to help organisations and individuals take steps to minimise the chance of harm happening in the first place.

Cllr Anthony McMullen, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, North Tyneside Council, said: “Adults with care and support needs might not always be able to protect themselves from harm and it is important that we all work together to identify, prevent and respond to abuse and neglect when it is occurring.

“COVID-19 has increased risks for some adults; now more than ever it is important that everyone is aware of the role they can play in reducing risks or reporting concerns.

“It is recognised that some individuals have been increasingly vulnerable and at risk of abuse during this time, particularly in the context of reduced contact with the outside world.

“The increased risks around self-neglect, financial abuse and scams, and domestic abuse are closely monitored, and all agencies are continuing to work together to prevent and reduce the risk of harm to individuals with care and support needs.

"National Safeguarding Week reminds us that by working together we can begin to help those where we live, and work feel supported and feel that someone is always there, but also help residents to spot the signs where that help is needed that has not yet been recognised."