The county council said in 2004-05 176 allegations of abuse were reported compared with 156 the year before.

It said more than 80% of the 94 concluded cases saw abuse proven or deemed likely to have happened.

The council said the figures showed it was getting better at encouraging people to report suspected abuse rather than an increase in levels of abuse.

Online reporting

The adult protection annual report is to be presented to the county council's community services scrutiny panel next week.

Elderly people, those with learning or physical disabilities and people with mental health issues can all be classed as vulnerable adults.

Abuse can be financial, physical, emotional, sexual, neglect or discrimination and may be carried out by a family member, partner, neighbour, care workers, volunteer or friend.

Sarah Bland, adult protection manager with the council, said: "It is important to remember that abuse can occur in any setting: at home, in a care home, in hospital or in a public place."