Calls for end to abuse of elderly

At least 200,000 people over the age of 60 are the victim of domestic abuse each year, according to a leading charity.

The Age UK say the figure is likely to be far higher due to people's reluctance or inability to report abuse by loved ones or carers and the National Crime Survey does not record data for people over the age of 74.

The charity is calling for data to be recorded for people of all ages.

It also wants a new definition of domestic abuse to include that perpetrated by those who are in trusted positions and provide unpaid care, such as friends and neighbours, as well as family members.

Age UK also wants to see better training of health workers to spot abuse.

The call comes as the Domestic Abuse Bill is due to receive its second reading in Parliament.

Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK said more needed to be done protect older people from abuse, including better links between the NHS and police forces.

She said: "There's a widespread misconception that domestic abuse only happens to younger people, but sadly hundreds of thousands of older people are affected too.

"It's high time that this was fully recognised by the law, policy and practice so that the needs of older survivors can be identified and properly met.”

She added: "Together with many other organisations, including the Women's Aid Federation, we are calling on the Government to present a bold and ambitious Domestic Abuse Bill in next month's Queen's Speech.