Challenging elder abuse

U.K. Elder abuse Last updated: 22 October 2007

A helpline is being launched today for the elderly, relatives and care workers to report abuse and bad practice in care homes

The launch of a helpline today is part of a major new partnership between a leading charity, statutory and care providers to protect older people from abuse.

For the first time three agencies, Action on Elder Abuse, the police and care providers, have come together to create a way of ensuring concerns are addressed within agreed timescales and with independent scrutiny.

Facing the fear

Fear prevents many older people and their relatives from reporting or challenging elder abuse. Fear prevents workers from whistle-blowing on their colleagues when they witness poor practice. Now, a unique scheme is being developed to overcome this hurdle and guarantee security for people in care homes who wish to safely make their voices heard.

Today Action on Elder Abuse, in conjunction with a range of partners in both the statutory and private sector, will launch a unique pilot scheme for residents, relatives and staff living in a number of care homes in Essex. The specialist helpline is the result of a collaboration between Action on Elder Abuse, Southern Cross Healthcare, Rushcliffe Care, Essex Vulnerable Adult Protection Committee, and the Commission for Social Care Inspection.

Call the helpline on 0800 808 8141

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