Safeguarding older people in Wales from abuse and neglect

As part of our contribution to Safeguarding Adults Week (21 – 24 November 2022), Age Cymru is urging older people who are being abused in some way, or who are concerned that an older person is being abused, to seek advice from our factsheet Safeguarding older people in Wales from abuse and neglect (FS78w). 

The factsheet advises that 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.  It adds that any form of abuse is unacceptable, no matter what justification or reason that may be given for it.

The factsheet aims to: raise awareness and understanding of the issue of abuse; provide details on approaches to safeguarding; outline help and support that may be available to report abuse; and provide information on ways that people can minimise the risk of abuse. 

If you are being abused you may find it very difficult to take the first step towards ending the abuse, so it might be useful to think about an approach that best suits you.  For example, in an emergency, you should contact the police.  In a non-emergency situation, you may contact your local social services department who have a duty to make enquiries if someone is an adult at risk of abuse or neglect. 

You may find it easier to speak to a trusted relative or friend or perhaps a health professional such as your carer, GP, or care home manager.  There is also a national 24-hour confidential helpline run by the charity, Hourglass (freephone 0808 808 8141).  

To obtain a copy of our free factsheet please call 029 2043 1555, email advice@agecymru.org.uk, or visit www.agecymru.org.uk/information-resources to download a copy. 

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