Specialist VAWDASV Support Provision for Older People in Wales Mwenya Chimba Head of Training & Survivor Participation Welsh Women’s Aid January 2018

What We Know Total Number of Older people supported by member services in 2016/2017 – 241 (6.4%) Refuge – 50 (5.4%) Community – 191 (6.7%) It is difficult to get any real idea of the prevalence of domestic violence in later life, because of the lack of studies attempting to capture this data. As it can be seen the number of older people supported by member services is quite low. However, that does not indicate that fewer older people experience domestic abuse, but it could be an indication that they are less likely to come forward to disclose abuse.

Barriers to Accessing Support Lack of specific/appropriate support for older people Older victims typically live with abuse for many years before getting help. Honour/ Shame Complex needs such as dementia or use alcohol as a coping mechanism.  Perpetrator may be viewed as vulnerable and not capable of serious harm. Perpetrator may be the victim’s adult child or grandchild Lack of financial independence. Confusion over the distinction between ‘domestic violence’ and ‘elder abuse’ This could mean that it will take them longer to deal with the trauma or leave the abusive situation at all. The shame of experiencing violence is often deeply embedded – and many women blame themselves for the abuse: for not being a good wife, or for expecting too much from their husbands.  Generational norms and values – particularly for women over 50 – often mean that women believe violence is a normal part of a relationship and that such matters should be kept private and within the family. Older women may come from generations where women were less likely to work and have financial independence. There are other differences too – years of abuse can erode women’s confidence and they may find it difficult to join in group sessions, particularly when the other women are younger. 

What we Can do to Help Be flexible in where and how you provide support Meet face-to-face with the older person whenever possible Respect your client’s autonomy and their right to make decisions in their own life. Be aware of local specialist services available to older people Older victims might require specially adapted homes to help them live independently. Explore options like befriending services, local activities and day/community centres to help address isolation.

Way Forward Innovative approaches to support provision Outreach support provision Specialist older people’s outreach workers Drop-in community activities and groups are popular with older women. Specific information and training for non-specialist staff (i.e. refuge workers) on how to work effectively with older women. Policy Guidance Financial Resource Investment Specialist older people’s outreach workers can offer tailored financial and legal advice and emotional support, and provide support for longer periods