Introduction
Elder abuse is a type of abuse that is not talked about enough. What is it? It is a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.
Often elderly victims don’t seek help because they fear it’s too late to make a change or they are concerned no one will believe them.
Challenge
COMPASS, the Domestic Abuse helpline covering Essex received a referral from Essex Police regarding an elderly victim, who was aged 75. The victim explained that she had her own health concerns while also caring for her disabled son, who lives with her.
She stated that she receives a private pension, which she uses to cover the rent for her privately rented accommodation. In addition to the pension, she also receives Carer’s Allowance for her disabled son. Recently, she became increasingly worried that her other son—who has been abusive towards her—was attempting to access her disabled son’s funds.
The abusive son is known to be a drug user. He was fully aware of his mother’s financial situation and benefit entitlements. He would call her persistently and repeatedly take food from the home. The victim reported that, at times, she was unable to afford heating. It transpired this had been ongoing for a number of years, and he had taken more than £50,000 from her in total. He would often refuse to leave the property until she gave him money and would become aggressive if she didn’t comply.
In addition to the financial abuse, she experiences daily verbal abuse. There have been previous incidents that resulted in police involvement.
Solution
A trained Domestic Abuse Helpline Practitioner assessed the client as being at medium risk of harm and discussed safety planning and available support options.
A referral to Adult Social Care was also agreed upon and completed to ensure additional safeguarding measures were put in place. By liaising with the Essex Safe Start Fund, they could provide the client with food vouchers to support the client’s immediate needs.
Following this initial assessment, she was referred to Changing Pathways for help and support.
Results
This collaborative working meant the client’s immediate safeguarding needs were addressed, and was able to learn what how to spot abusive and controlling behaviours and get lasting support, help and care.