Phone: 0161 250 5341 | Email: info@livingsupported.co.uk
Recognising Abuse and Neglect of Older People
How to recognise the signs of abuse and neglect of an older person, including financial abuse, and what to do if you are worried.
In short
- Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial or neglect. It can come from family, friends or paid helpers.
- If someone is in danger now, call 999.
- Hourglass gives free, confidential advice 24 hours a day: 0808 808 8141.
Types of abuse
- Financial: taking money, pressuring changes to a will, misusing bank cards
- Emotional: threats, humiliation, isolating someone from others
- Physical: hitting, rough handling, misuse of medication
- Neglect: not providing food, warmth, cleanliness or medical help
- Sexual abuse
Warning signs
- Unexplained bruises or injuries
- Sudden changes in money, unpaid bills or missing possessions
- Seeming frightened, withdrawn or anxious around a particular person
- Poor hygiene, weight loss or an unheated home
- Someone controlling who they see or speak to
What to do
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 999
- Talk to them privately and listen without judgement
- Contact your local council’s adult social care team to raise a safeguarding concern
- Call Hourglass for confidential advice
Age UK has further guidance on spotting and reporting abuse. Our companions follow a clear safeguarding policy and will always raise concerns.
Where to get help
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
- Hourglass: 0808 808 8141 (free, 24 hours, for anyone worried about the abuse or neglect of an older person)
- Age UK Advice Line: 0800 678 1602 (free, 8am to 7pm, every day)
About Livingsupported: we offer private, non-regulated companionship, home help and lifestyle support across South Manchester, Cheshire and Staffordshire. We do not provide personal, nursing or medical care, counselling or therapy. Request a free home visit or call 0161 250 5341.