News

Support move against elderly abuse- 4th November

The abuses facing some older people are finally but slowly coming to public attention, usually through publicity about care homes. We now reluctantly accept that financial abuse, emotional abuse, physical and sexual assault, and neglect can be a regular experience for some of our elders.

But we have yet to recognise that the majority of such abuse actually happens in people's own homes, often perpetrated by those whom elderly people trust to support and protect them. And sadly, this includes some neighbours, friends and family members. A Government report last year suggested that the extent of elder abuse within our communities is at least four per cent, affecting over 342,000 older people across the UK.

But if you or a loved one have experienced abuse, where do you go to seek outside help and assistance? Unlike the situation in care homes, nursing homes or domiciliary care (home help services) where there are legal standards and inspectors, there is no similar legal system to provide you with protection if you organise your own care or if the abuse comes from a family friend.

Instead, there are systems organised under guidance issued to local authorities in 2000 (called No Secrets in England and In Safe Hands in Wales).

Earlier this year the Scottish Parliament recognised that guidance could not provide the framework to protect adults at risk of abuse.

It introduced legislation to ensure action could happen when someone experienced abuse. But elsewhere in the UK the Government remains undecided and unsure.

I am therefore asking for your help. Please support Action on Elder Abuse and sign our petition at www.elderabuse.org.uk which calls for legislation. Please write to your MP and tell him/her that you support the need for legislation (a draft letter is available on our website when you sign the petition). Gary FitzGerald, Chief Executive, Action on Elder Abuse. -The Bolton New