 |
Signatures on cheques etc.,
that do not resemble the older person's signature, or signed when the older person
cannot write; |
|
Any sudden changes in bank accounts, including an unexplained withdrawal of large sums of money by a person companying the
older person; |
|
the
inclusion of additional names on an older person's bank
account; |
|
Abrupt changes to or sudden establishment of wills |
|
The sudden
appearance of previously uninvolved relatives
claiming their rights to an older
person's affairs or possessions |
|
The unexplained
sudden transfer of assets to a family member or someone
outside the family; |
|
Numerous
unpaid bills, overdue rent, when someone is supposed to be paying
the bills for them; |
|
Unusual
concern by someone
that an excessive amount
of money is being expended on the care of the
older person; |
|
Lack
of amenities, such as TV, personal grooming items,
appropriate clothing, that the older
person should
be able to
afford; |
|
The unexplained
disappearance of funds or valuable possessions such as art, silverware, or
jewellery; |
|
Deliberate
isolation of an older person from friends and family, resulting in
the caregiver alone having total control; |
|
Financial
Abuse – Frequently Asked Questions
- What
is financial abuse? - Financial
Abuse is defined by Action on Elder Abuse as stealing or defrauding
someone of goods and/or property.
- Where
can you go for help if you are being financially abused? – Arrangements
are in place throughout the
United Kingdom
for responding to all allegations of abuse against “vulnerable”
adults. The lead agency
would usually be social services or its equivalent. If you are
concerned about possible financial abuse please contact your local
social services and state that you wish to make an “adult
protection” referral. You
can also contact the police directly if you have evidence that a
crime has been committed.
- Does
it matter if the perpetrator is a paid worker or a family member?
– It makes no difference at
all. Any and all
allegations of abuse should be investigated through the procedures
outlined above regardless of the location of abuse and the status of
the abuser. Many workers especially those working in health and
social care are bound by professional codes of conduct which
strictly define how they should behaviour in regard to handling of
peoples finances.
- What
is a power of attorney? –
A power of attorney is a legal document whereby one person gives
another person the power to act on their behalf regarding their
property or financial affairs. An
enduring power of attorney covers those people who lack mental
capacity. Currently a
power of attorney does not cover health and social welfare issues.
Arrangements for powers of attorney are due to change under
The Mental Capacity Act.
- How
do I complain about my power of attorney? – If
you feel that a power of attorney or enduring power of attorney is
being misused and that you may be the victim of financial abuse then
you should make an immediate “adult protection” referral as
highlighted above or contact the police.
- What
if I need legal advice? – Action
on elder Abuse DOES NOT offer legal advice and is unable to
recommend a particular firm of solicitors.
Solicitors for the Elderly are able to put people in touch
with solicitors firms that specialize in dealing with issues
affecting older people. They can be contacted by telephone 01992
471568 or www.solicitorsfortheelderly.com
|
