Dame Esther Rantzen made a special guest appearance to launch a conference,last week, organised by Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service to raise awareness of domestic abuse of older people. The conference, held on International Day of Older Persons was provided free of charge for anyone working with older people, thanks to a support from charity Independent Age. Over 120 people attended the event from Swindon and across the South West.
During an inspiring, personal keynote address, Dame Esther spoke about “the enormous responsibility” of attendees and Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service “to protect older people,” before inviting attendees to share their own advice and experience as well as to tell her how she could help in their valuable work.
“We’re very grateful to have received this support from Independent Age, which will enable us to continue to expand our reach and make sure even more people get the help they need,” said Emma Rawlings, CEO of Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service. “Older people can sometimes find themselves especially vulnerable, particularly during this difficult year. We’re now in the position to be able to respond directly to that need by expanding our own services but also by providing training and guidance to many more dedicated people who care for them every day.”
Following a welcome from Emma Rawlings, attendees were given the latest research findings and best practice guidance for supporting older people suffering domestic abuse by Lucy Giles, Knowledge Hub Advisor from SafeLives. Giles Spear, National Wellbeing Advisor from Independent Age, then laid out how the two charities are working together to improve support to older people suffering domestic abuse and the additional concerns which must be addressed to improve safety during the current pandemic.
“One in four victims of domestic homicides is over the age of 60, and, on average, older victims experience abuse for twice as long before seeking help,” explained Giles. “That’s why we’re supporting Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service to share their specialist knowledge with other professionals within the Older Persons care area.”
For more help and advice, visit: www.swadomesticabuse.org. The charity’s 24-hour helpline is free to call on 01793 610 610.
