Statistics Show Shocking Levels of Adult Abuse

Sunday, 21 February 2010

Statistics recently released have highlighted a worrying rise in adult abuse across Sefton - particularly amongst the elderly. A meeting of the Health and Social Care Cabinet last Wednesday saw the Council updated on the progress of the Safeguarding Adults in Sefton Programme and the figures have given Southport MP, John Pugh, cause for concern.

There was a total of 559 referrals since April 2009. There were 53 referrals in April last year, compared to 69 in December, with a total for the year of 559 referrals. Of these 216 occured to people in their own homes. The ages of those affected ranged from 19 to 103. 

"The statistics throw up not only the worrying levels of abuse, but  also variety," the MP commented. "This includes  psychological, financial, and institutional mistreatment. 237 of the 559 cases were physical abuse.

"It also highlights that many elderly people are especially  vulnerable - particularly those suffering from dementia or physical infirmity   With dementia and disability increasing and support services stretched, this will get worse.  We cannot ignore this problem"  

However he did praise the Council for their training levels. "At the  end of 2009 there was refresher training for investigators as well as  more training to help those investigating cases to be more alert to  the signs of abuse."  

Dr Pugh supports the campaign by fellow Liberal Democrat MP Paul Burstow to raise awareness about and decrease instances of elder  abuse, and introduce a law to protect them.  "A new law in Scotland has been passed to protect adults at risk. The  law defines those at risk as adults who are vulnerable because of  disability or mental illness, or who may find it hard to keep  themselves and their property safe.  

"It puts more responsibility on Councils to intervene if they think    somebody is at risk, and they can  also ask to see health and finance records. If abuse continues to rise  then a new law could be a serious consideration.

"A law would also mean more co-ordination at a local and national level, which would reduce the risks of these episodes occuring."