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Safeguarding older people from abuse

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If you know an older person who is being abused or who may be at risk of abuse, then you might find our information useful. Whether you know the individual involved through your role as a professional, carer, relative or friend, we all have an important part to play in safeguarding them from abuse.

Any form of abuse is unacceptable, no matter what justification or reason may be given for it, and it is very important that we are aware of this and know that help is available.

Contents

  • Recent developments
  • What is elder abuse and safeguarding?
  • Different types of abuse
  • Financial abuse
  • Neglect
  • Physical abuse
  • Sexual abuse
  • Psychological/emotional abuse
  • Institutional abuse
  • Discriminatory abuse
  • Guidance and legislation
  • Review of the No Secrets guidance
  • Mental capacity, deprivation of liberty and human rights
  • The Transforming Adult Social Care agenda
  • Who might abuse an older person?
  • Why might someone abuse?
  • Where might abuse occur?
  • How statutory services can help
  • What can someone who is experiencing abuse do to stop it?
  • Making the first step
  • If someone is in a care home
  • Living in supported/sheltered accommodation
  • Different types of support
  • If you witness or suspect abuse
  • The duties of professionals
  • Reporting abuse and "whistle-blowing"
  • The new Vetting and Barring Scheme
  • Useful organisations
  • Further information from Age UK

opens link in new window Download our factsheet Safeguarding older people from abuse (PDF 270KB)

The factsheet we produce describes the situation in England. There may be differences in the legislation, guidance and procedures in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Readers in these nations should contact their respective national Age UK offices for information specific to where they live – see section 12 for details.

We are grateful for the generous support of Dr Naim Dangoor CBE
and The Exilarch's Foundation

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Useful information to download

  • A factsheet to help you if you know an older person who is being abused or who may be at risk of abuse.
  • A factsheet with more detailed information about how to arrange for someone to look after your money, property and welfare.
  •  

    A factsheet that explains in more depth the issues surrounding making a Will.

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    2. Click ‘Download’.
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