Independent Age has published a free booklet that offers guidance about neglect and abuse. It aims to empower people to identify when situations may be abusive and who they can turn to if neglect or abuse are suspected. It also offers advice for family members or friends who are concerned about the safety of their loved ones.
What is abuse?
Abuse is when someone we can expect to trust causes us harm or distress. It can take many forms ranging from disrespect to causing someone physical or mental pain. It can occur in someone’s home, a hospital, a care home or a public place.
Five common types of abuse are financial, psychological, physical, sexual and neglect. Someone may experience one or more types of abuse.
Often the people who commit abuse are taking advantage of a special relationship. They may be a family member, friend or paid carer. Sometimes abuse isn’t intentional, but happens because someone doesn’t have the skills or support needed to care for someone. This doesn’t make the impact of it any less but it can help to understand how it happened.
Abuse is never acceptable and you don’t have to put up with it, no matter who is mistreating you or how minor you feel the abuse is. There is help available to keep you safe and decide what action to take.
Order a free copy of Independent Age’s free booklet to read more about:
- The five most common types of abuse
- Spotting the signs of abuse
- Getting help if you’re being abused or neglected
