A section 42 enquiry is the action taken, or instigated, by a local authority in response to a concern that an adult who meets the criteria (see 14.2 of the Care and Support Statutory Guidance) may be at risk of, or experiencing, abuse or neglect. An enquiry could range from a conversation with the adult – or their representative or advocate – before initiating a formal enquiry under section 42, through to a much more formal multi-agency plan or course of action.
