Everyone should have the right to a life free from abuse, where dignity, respect and safety are part of the natural fabric of society.
Unfortunately this is not the case and Age Cymru estimates that 39,000 older people in Wales are experiencing abuse in their own homes.
It’s saddening to consider the total number of suspected adult abuse cases reported to the authorities in 2009-2010 was just 4,913.
Clearly, there is much more that we should and can do to protect older people from abuse, and Age Cymru is asking congregations across Wales to help.
There is no clear statutory duty on local authorities to investigate cases of abuse or potential abuse that are reported to them.
We feel more focussed laws, along with strengthened guidance, training for staff, increased public awareness and access to advocacy services would ensure adult protection is given the priority it deserves.
Age Cymru has developed the Rule Out Abuse campaign, calling for a statutory duty to be placed on public bodies, including local authorities, to investigate cases of abuse or potential abuse reported to them.
We need your help to put vulnerable people back in control of their own safety and happiness, where abuse has taken this away.
Please show your support by signing our Rule Out Abuse Charter, to give every one of us who feels strongly about this issue the chance to have our voice heard.
For more information about Age Cymru’s Rule Out Abuse campaign and to sign the charter visit http://www.agecymru.org.uk/ruleoutabuse or call 02920 431555.
