Telephone Hotline Launched to Tackle Elder Abuse and Neglect

Elder abuse and neglect

25/10/2007

A new telephone hotline has been launched in conjunction with care homes to allow people to complain without fear of repercussions.

The hotline, designed to tackle elderly neglect and abuse, has been set up by a number of organisations including the police and charity Action of Elder Abuse.

Currently available in Essex, it is intended to give residents of care homes, their families and friends the opportunity to express concerns.

Statistics show that nearly a quarter of calls to the charity Action on Elder Abuse are about abuse in care homes where only 4.9 per cent of older people live.

The relevant authorities will respond to any information received by the freephone helpline throughout the pilot area.

Joanne Ashley from Irwin Mitchell Solicitors commented: "Elder abuse and neglect is an issue which must be tackled. It is encouraging to see this new initiative may lead to further projects aimed at protecting the elderly and vulnerable".