Research reveals over 18k older people in Western Trust area experience abuse

The Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Helpline and Hourglass Northern Ireland have joined forces to highlight how older people in Northern Ireland experience coercive control/controlling behaviour, physical abuse and sexual abuse. They are encouraging older people, and those who care for them, to reach out for support.

Hourglass research has revealed 1 in 5 older people in the UK are victims of abuse. This means approximately 18,205 older people experience abuse in this area.

Joanne Barnes, CEO of Nexus, which hosts the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline, said: “Last year only 6 older people per week (approx. 300 in year) reached out to the DSA Helpline for support, with about half of callers citing experience of coercive control, one quarter sexual abuse and one quarter physical abuse.

“Given that we know an estimated 100k experience abuse across Northern Ireland, there are scores of thousands of older people suffering in silence without the help and support they deserve. No abuse or control is acceptable, even when you are in a long-term relationship.

“It is important to note that the DSA Helpline is anonymous and confidential, we provide advice and guidance for you to consider in your own time, no matter what age you are, when the abuse happened or how long the abuse has been going on. We also provide advice for people who care for older people in a personal or professional capacity.”

Veronica Gray, Deputy Chief Executive and Policy Director of Hourglass, added: “Our own research tells us that the abuse and neglect of older people is on the rise. Without specialist services, older people will continue to suffer in silence, hence this unique partnership with the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline. Hourglass NI has developed a unique community response approach to build tailored care plans and advocacy services for older victim-survivors and we stand ready to work with those who needs us.”

Detective Superintendent Heather Campbell from the PSNI Public Protection Branch, said: “Unfortunately, abuse against older people happens here in Northern Ireland and is often unreported for many reasons. This may be the physical or mental ability of the victim, their dependency on the abuser for care and/or the fear of retaliation from the abuser.

“We recorded 2,522 domestic or sexual abuse crimes against people aged 55 or over in 23/24, representing approximately 10% (1in10) of all domestic and sexual abuse recorded crimes. 

“We hope that raising awareness on spotting the signs will encourage and give people the confidence to report this crime. Older people are often scared to speak up in fear of what will happen to them. Therefore, it is important that we are their voice, and we are looking out for older people.

“We as a police service are committed to preventing, deterring and detecting crimes against older people in our communities.”

Older people who are experiencing abuse should reach out for advice by calling the DSA helpline, our experienced call handlers will provide advice and guidance, including signposting to relevant organisations such as Hourglass and provide information on the type of support they offer.

You can call the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline on 0808 802 1414, it is available 24/7 for any individual impacted by domestic or sexual abuse, either directly or indirectly.  Support is also available via email at help@dsahelpline.org and online at dsahelpline.org to ‘Live Chat’ with an advisor.

If you are in immediate danger, please call the Police Service of Northern Ireland on 999. 

Hourglass has outlined key signs to look out for that may indicate that an older person is experiencing coercive control, physical abuse and/or sexual abuse. These can include:

• Physical signs of bruising, injury to body.
• Making excuses for injuries and self-blame.
• Injuries that do not match the explanation given for them.
• Avoiding medical professionals.
• Excusing the behaviour of family member/partner.
• Change in personality- becoming withdrawn, anxious, frightened, agitated, anxious or aggressive.
• Change in appetite, sleep habits, toileting.
• Constantly checking in with family member/partner, over pleasing.
• No longer socialises, is more isolated, defensive.
• Isn't allowed to be on their own with you without the abusive family member/partner.
• Lack basic essentials, food, heating, missing possessions or having less income without reason.
• Have pain, itching or injury in the genital or abdominal area.
• Have torn, stained or bloody underclothing
• Have bite marks and bruises.
• Have STIs or recurrent bouts of cystitis.
• Have difficulty sitting and walking due to discomfort in genital area.