MP Pledges to Help Stop Elder Abuse

31st January 2006

David Amess MP has pledged his support to the Help the Aged campaign to help stop elder abuse. Commenting on the campaign Mr Amess said:

"I am delighted to support Help the Aged's campaign on such a vital issue. Elder abuse includes everything from financial exploitation, emotional bullying and neglect, to violence committed against older people by friends and family.  It is shocking indictment of our society that 500,000 older people in the UK are believed to be at risk at any one time."

Research released by Help the Aged showed that 1 in 8 people had experienced elder abuse, yet 39% had never even heard the term. The campaign challenges the public to sign up to the pledge 'I will' to show their determination to 'help stop elder abuse'. Kate Jopling, Parliamentary Spokesperson at Help the Aged said: "Elder abuse is a national scandal which Help the Aged is determined to tackle. Residents in Southend West have a key role to play in helping raise awareness of the issue and knowing what to do if they suspect elder abuse is taking place.

"We're really pleased to have the strong public support of David in this campaign and thank him for signing up to our campaign to help stop elder abuse. By registering support through our iwill.co.uk website, pressure will grow on politicians to stop elder abuse."