Help stop elder abuse

The public have polled child abuse, cancer and poverty as the causes they would be most ready to support, with only 2% of respondents saying that combating elder abuse was a priority.

The findings are the result of an Andrew Irving Associates survey for Help the Aged.

In response, Help the Aged has launched a national awareness campaign to challenge the public to pledge 'I will' in determination to stop elder abuse.

ABUSE
Evidence shows that one in eight older people have been abused in the UK.

The 'I will' campaign highlights abuse from financial exploitation, emotional bullying, neglect and the violence committed against older people by friends, family or professional carers. It is run in partnership with the Action on Elder Abuse charity.

A video accompanies the campaign in which local BBC and UTV personalities highlight some of the shocking cases of abuse.

Grace Henry at Help the Aged said, "Ignorance prevents us from recognising what elder abuse truly is and why it happens. It is up to all of us to familiarise ourselves with the facts and look out for the signs. Our vulnerable older friends and relatives deserve the best protection they can be afforded."

Evidence based on calls to the Action on Elder Abuse helpline suggests that people who abuse are often related to those on the receiving end - with a quarter of all cases involving sons and daughters.

Over the coming months the campaign will be rolled out across Northern Ireland with regional meetings in Derry, Armagh, Ballymena and Omagh. MPs and local councils will also be encouraged to pledge their support to the campaign.

HOW TO RESPOND

1. Visit www.iwill.co.uk and pledge your support.
2. Request an information booklet and leaflet from Help the Aged on 028 9023 0666 or pick one up at your GP surgery or Citizens Advice.
3. Use the Help the Aged Action on Elder Abuse freephone helpline 0808 808 8141.