June 15 2015
We took to the streets of Essex today for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
We teamed up with Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex Lindsay Whitehouse and Age UK Essex to raise awareness of the issue and encourage more people in Essex to speak up about abuse through the new anonymous 0800 032 7644 reporting line.
The line, a joint initiative between Crimestoppers and the Essex PCC, is currently under trial after being launched in February this year. Find out more.
From today, an advertising van promoting the reporting line will tour Essex – stopping in every district over the next ten days to hand out leaflets.
“Elder abuse can happen anywhere – in a care home, a hospital or even the victim’s own home. We want to help stamp this out.
“There are people out there who have information and we would urge those people to call the 0800 032 7644 number or give information online through www.crimestoppers-uk.org/essex-elder-abuse.
“You can remain anonymous. We won’t take your personal details, we can’t trace your call or information given online and you won’t have to give a statement
“Don’t let the abusers get away with it – speak up.”
- Ann Scott, Campaigns Manager for Crimestoppers
“It’s really important that people come to understand the signs of elder abuse and know they can report concerns either directly to police or by using this reporting line.
“Dignity and respect matter, and abuse – particularly where the victim may be highly vulnerable – should not be tolerated.
“If you know or live near an elderly person please take the time to get to understand their needs and offer them the support that they need.”
- Lindsay Whitehouse, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex
The reporting line has received huge support from the Safeguarding Boards of Essex, Thurrock and Southend as well as Age UK Essex.
“We all have a responsibility to stamp out elder abuse.
“It’s incredibly important to educate everyone about the different strands of elder abuse and encourage more people to speak up if they know it is happening.
“We want more people to be brave enough to say ‘that’s not right and I’m going to do something about it.’”
- Gary Clinton, Service Delivery Manager for Age UK Essex’s Advocacy Service
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is an annual event that was established by the United Nations to raise awareness of elder abuse and highlight the need for action.