Elder Abuse Day raises awareness to an often-marginalised group of people. Older people may not have the social connections that they used to. They might be more housebound due to mobility issues, or have few family members to check in on them. It means that reporting instances of abuse can be difficult. Adding to this problem, is that abuse might be coming from those who are supposed to be supporting them.
Our service works with IDVA’s (Independent Domestic Violence Advocates) who take an active role in working with high risk victims.
Today we’re speaking to Jo about what she does. Thank you, Jo!
Older victims
When I started my role as an older persons IDVA I visited many different professionals. It became clear that the support was not out there for older victims. Many were not accessing the domestic abuses services already in the community. There are a few reasons for this.
There is a basic lack of training around issues faced by older victims of domestic abuse. This can mean that practitioners lack the skills and knowledge to respond to it effectively. it means I need to visit many pharmacies, GP surgeries and hospitals offering training and handing out posters.
My working week starts by my visiting clients at a safe space. Most of them are still living with the person causing harm, so this could be in a café or the GP surgery. My main action on the first meeting is to put a safety plan in place. This usually means making sure there is a place we can meet. This is because often my clients:
• share a home with the person causing harm
• has abusive person visit the older person’s home
• the client is leaving, ending or changing the relationship with the abusive person
I attend multi-disciplinary team meetings and safeguarding meetings to discuss patients that may be experiencing abuse. I also attend sessions in cafes; wherever my services are needed.
If you know someone who is elderly and suspect they may need help, please contact us.
