Police are calling on Sunshine Coast residents to help create awareness about elder abuse.
Queensland officers are involved a three-year awareness campaign, with this year’s theme being ‘Let’s start a conversation’.
The campaign ramped up this month, to coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15.
The QPS is committed to working with older people, the community and support agencies to stop harm to older people.
Elder abuse is everyone’s responsibility.
There is no typical stereotype that identifies a person who commits the harm, or who is at risk of harm.
The abuse can be experienced by men and women from all cultures and races and both rich and poor.
Sadly, most of the elder abuse is committed by someone who is known and trusted by the person. These may include family members, friends, or carers.
Financial, psychological, social, neglect and sexual abuse are all types of elder abuse.
There is an alarming amount of underreporting of such crimes.
More than two thirds of victims do not report elder abuse.
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If you are experiencing elder abuse or have concerns that someone you know is a victim of elder abuse, there are several support agencies you can contact.
Most importantly, if the crime is happening now and you need immediate help, in an emergency, call triple zero (000).
The Elder Abuse Helpline is a support agency to help victims of elder abuse and is funded by the Queensland Government and operated by UnitingCare Community.
For free, anonymous, and confidential assistance 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday call 1300 651 192 (Queensland only) or (07) 3867 2525.
To find other support and services for elder abuse visit Queensland Government – Stop Elder Abuse.
Contact Policelink online or on 131 444 to report any elder abuse.
For more information regarding WEAAD visit COTA Queensland.
This column is compiled by the Sunshine Coast District Crime Prevention Unit.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at Queensland Police – Reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at Crime Stoppers.
