Many older people will face abuse, violence, or isolation this Christmas. At Action on Elder Abuse, we are fighting to protect older people from harm, abuse and exploitation, with our dedicated team working tirelessly to help, advice, and support anyone affected by elder abuse.
To find out more about the support available for older victims or to donate online, visit https://www.elderabuse.org.uk/donate/donate/10 or call our freephone confidential helpline on 080 8808 8141 for help and advice.
Betty’s story
Betty* was a resident of a Care Home in Devon. Concerned about the quality of Betty’s care, her family installed a hidden camera in her room that captured horrifying abuse. Betty was 94 years old, had advanced dementia, and was very vulnerable.
Shocking footage showed care staff mocking and taunting a frightened Betty, with a further recording showing staff removing bandages meant to cover one of her many open sores and wrapping them around her head. Instead of caring for Betty, staff laughed mercilessly as she lay crying.
When Betty’s family contacted the Action on Elder Abuse helpline the charity quickly intervened, giving the distraught family a voice and much needed support. Four care workers were successfully prosecuted and given lifetime bans from working in the care sector.
Betty was immediately removed from the home and spent the rest of her three remaining years in a comfortable and safe environment where she was cared for with dignity. She peacefully passed away earlier this year, surrounded by her family.
Action on Elder Abuse is here to give hope, through support, advice and casework to any older person like Betty, and to the families of those who are experiencing abuse…it’s the best gift we can give them this Christmas. Your support will help us continue to fight for the rights and dignity of older people, and to keep them safe.
TEXT DIGNITY TO 70460 TO DONATE
£10 TO FUND THE ACTION ON ELDER ABUSE HELPLINE.
*All names, locations and photos have been changed to protect identities. Action on Elder Abuse is a registered charity, numbers 1140543 and SC046278
