Protect the elderly
We have been horrified by the abuse of children but every day thousands of older people suffer equally dreadful abuse
January 19, 2009
Sir, The publicity surrounding the death of Baby P has dominated public attention for weeks as the sad story of his short life unfolded. And Britain has been rightly horrified that another child has suffered such horrendous abuse. In response the Government has promised new legislation, restructures and more than £200 million to further develop child protection.
But every day thousands of older people suffer equally dreadful abuse or are on the receiving end of sub-standard and poor care. A Government-sponsored report in 2007 suggested that more than 342,000 old people experience abuse within their own homes. Action on Elder Abuse estimates that the true figure could be more than 500,000 older people.
To protect older people we rely on guidance that has no status and no resources. And that guidance is failing. We are therefore supporting the call by Action on Elder Abuse and others, for the Government to introduce a new law to put the protection of our old people on the same status as children, domestic abuse, and animals. If we cannot give safety and security to our older citizens then we have no justification to call ourselves a civilised nation. They deserve better than this.
Baroness Greengross
Baroness Barker
Baroness Murphy
Baroness Howe of Idlicote
Professor Lord Winston
Lord Rea
Lord Patel
Lord Joffe
House of Lords, London SW1
SOURCE: Times online Comment
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Thank you for speaking up for the vulnerable elderly in your country. It would be great if notables in other countries join in. It is a Human Rights Issue. The problem has been ignored for too long.
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