Wales has the highest levels of Elder Abuse in the UK

3.45.18pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 14th Jun 2007

Jenny Randerson AM today attended a Press and Information briefing on Elder Abuse at the Wales Millennium Centre. According to the organisation 'Action on Elder Abuse' 6% of older people it surveyed had experienced some form of abuse compared to 3.9% in England. Elder Abuse is a complex phenomenon, with a wide range of causes and can take many forms.

Welsh Lib Dem Social Services and Equal Opportunities spokesperson Jenny Randerson AM, commenting on Elder abuse said: This is yet more evidence in favour of Carers rights. Often the challenges of caring for an elderly relative can result in poor mental health and can lead to some carers being driven to breaking point.

"The figures show how far Wales has to go to be on a par with England; the sooner we give respite to carers and increased levels of information, the better.

"The figures overwhelmingly showed that women were affected most by elder abuse, women also bear the brunt of caring responsibilities. It is clear that a lot more help is needed if women are to have equal treatment in this field as in many others!

Notes:

Elder abuse is defined as '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.'

In tandem with 'Carers Week' Jenny has been highlighting the plight of carers. See http://www.carersweek.org/ for details of the week and associated events

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Contact/Cyswllt: Andrew Sherwood 02920 898324