MP pledges to help stop elder abuse

11.29.35am GMT Tue 31st Jan 2006

MP for Cheadle, Mark Hunter pledged his support this week in Parliament to the Help the Aged campaign to help stop elder abuse.

Commenting on the campaign Mark 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 Cheadle 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 Mark Hunter MP and welcome their 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."

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Notes

Help the Aged is the charity fighting to free disadvantaged older people in the UK and overseas from poverty, isolation and neglect. It campaigns to raise public awareness of the issues affecting older people and to bring about policy change. The Charity delivers a range of services including information and advice, home support and help in difficult times that are supported by its fundraising activities and paid for services. Help the Aged also carries out vital research into the causes of certain diseases and disabilities in later life, and works to find lasting solutions to them.

Picture shows Mark Hunter MP (right) pledging his support for the campaign with Steve Jones, Director of Communications for Help the Aged.