Protection from abuse

We all have the right to live free from abuse of any kind. Our age or circumstances should have no bearing or effect on this basic right. Abuse can occur in a person’s own home or whilst they are receiving a service – for example in a hospital or care home. The abuse may be perpetrated by a friend, family member or a stranger, or it might be by a professional in the course of their work with an older person.

We produce a detailed factsheet which is designed to help you if:

• You are an older person who is being abused or neglected, or may be at risk of this.
• You are concerned on an older person’s behalf that they are being abused. In these instances – whether you know the individual involved through your role as a professional, carer, relative or friend – you may 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. The information in our factsheet aims to:

• Raise awareness and understanding of the issue of abuse.
• Provide details on approaches to safeguarding – including relevant legislation, statutory guidance and policies – together with practical steps that can be taken to stop abuse.
• Outline help and support that may be available to report abuse.
• Information on ways that people can minimise the risk of abuse.

Factsheet 78w: Safeguarding older people in Wales from abuse and neglect