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How to identify elder abuse and neglect in the family. Jill Manthorpe Professor of Social Work King’s College London Jill.manthorpe @kcl.ac.uk. Identification: steps in England. Hidden populations (see UK Study of Abuse and Neglect of Older People)
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How to identify elder abuse and neglect in the family Jill Manthorpe Professor of Social Work King’s College London Jill.manthorpe @kcl.ac.uk
Identification: steps in England Hidden populations (see UK Study of Abuse and Neglect of Older People) The risk factors for neglect appear to be: • being female • aged 85 and over • suffering bad/very bad health & depression But probably: • already in receipt of, or in touch with, services
Older people may be the ‘perpetrators’ • In the UK prevalence study (1): half of those who had been neglected or abused by their partner (51%); a similar proportion by other family (49%) (respondents could mention more than one person) • Spouse or partner most common perpetrator for neglect (70%) and interpersonal abuse (57%) • Other family most common for financial abuse (54%) (1) Report available from: www.natcen.ac.uk
Challenges in identification & response • Hidden and Secret • Stigma and Shame • Definitions inexact • Professional lack of confidence & skills • Limited alternatives • Counting referrals to services
Responses • New legal provisions • Like Mental Capacity Act 2005 – ‘wilful neglect’ & ‘mistreatment’ • Better access to justice - giving evidence • Service development • Government guidance & revision planned • Development of practice experience & expertise • Better support for family carers
Involvement of older people and their organisations • Publicity - balancing fear with self-protection • Pressure group activity – support & fundraising & helpline • Local activity & involvement • Willingness to tell stories • Participating in research • Key body: Action on Elder Abuse but also Dignity Champions