Need information or support?

Call our helpline     UK:   0808 808 8141
ROI:   1800 940 010  

Television programmes often contain distressing and shocking information on the reality of some care home provision, and the inability of the current regulation system to guarantee protection from abusive situations.  It is important however to remember that most of our care homes provide good quality care, from people and organisations who are genuine in what they do.  Some however continue to be appalling.

To help you in this situation we have produced a simple guide to what you should consider when looking at a care home for yourself or a loved one, and what you should do if you are concerned about abuse.  You can download a copy of that guide by clicking here.

In addition, if you click here you can learn about the subject, including the signs to look out for in physical, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse and neglect.  It will also give you advice on who you can contact to report abuse.

Additionally, telephone our helpline between the hours of 9.00 am and 5.00 pm Monday to Friday:

         080 8808 8141  (UK)           1800 940 010  (Republic of Ireland)

Never accept an abusive situation.  Never let someone stop you doing something you believe to be right.  You have the same rights as everyone else in the UK to be treated with dignity, respect and understanding.  Care homes are paid to provide you with quality care and you should think of them as a ‘long term hotel’.  You wouldn’t accept poor services from a hotel, and nor should you from a care home.

Unless something is life-threatening or a criminal act, try to resolve it with the person in charge of the care home before raising the matter elsewhere.  Good quality care providers will want to put things right when they are brought to light.

Regardless of your age you have the same rights as everyone else in the UK to health care and treatment.  If you are not well, you are entitled to see a doctor.  If you feel that an illness, injury or disease is serious you have the right to attend a hospital, if necessary by dialling 999.

If something makes you feel uncomfortable, or feels unfair, you should complain. 

If something is a crime you should report it to the police, if necessary by dialling 999.

If you are concerned about a relative/friend, ask questions until you are satisfied with the answers.  If you are not satisfied, complain.  If you are unsure, get a second opinion. 

If you are concerned about the health of a relative/friend and you feel the care home is not responding with sufficient seriousness or urgency then seek assistance, if necessary by dialling 999.   As soon as possible, write down what happened.  Keep any evidence of what occurred and record who was present.  Remember, the police may need evidence protected so never clean garments or throw away items as they might be needed for forensic evidence.

When, and if, you can, make a complaint to the person in charge of the care home.  If you feel unable to do this, contact your family or friends and ask them to visit you.  Tell them what happened and ask them to complain on your behalf.  Alternatively, ring us or get someone to do it on your behalf, and we'll make the complaint for you.

Campaign for Legislation to protect Vulnerable Adults 

You can help us make a real difference to the lives of older people by supporting our major campaign.  We need comprehensive legislation that defines the nature of abuse, makes protection a legislative requirement, and provides penalties for those guilty of such offences

By signing our petition and also emailing your MP indicating support you can add your voice to the growing demands for change.  Help us make a real difference.  more..

Don't forget, Action on Elder Abuse (AEA) works to protect, and prevent the abuse of, vulnerable older adults.  We were the first charity to address these problems and are the only charity in the UK and in Ireland working exclusively on the issue today.  Consequently, when you provide support to us, or make a donation, you can be sure that it will be used exclusively on issues relating to elder abuse and nothing else.

So give real thought to making a donation to our work, joining us as a member, or becoming a true friend and arranging a standing order for a few pounds per week.  We need your help.  And those Older People facing abuse need ours.

Click here to find out how you can support us.

Options

Some general advice on abuse

Campaign for legislation.  Sign our petition

And finally, practical ways to help