York launches campaign to shine a light on hidden financial abuse of older people
A new city-wide campaign is launching across York to raise awareness of financial abuse against older people and encourage victims, families, friends and neighbours to seek support.
Led by City of York Council in partnership with Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), Age UK York and a range of community organisations, the campaign aims to help residents recognise the signs of financial abuse and understand that it is a form of domestic abuse.
The campaign will feature posters, videos, leaflets, community outreach activities and information in libraries, GP surgeries, pharmacies and community venues across the city.
Research and local data suggest that older people can experience financial abuse for many years before help is sought. Abuse can include pressure to hand over money, misuse of pensions or savings, coercion around financial decisions, abuse of Power of Attorney, theft, or controlling access to bank accounts and financial information.
Campaign materials are based on real-life scenarios to help people identify behaviours that may not immediately be recognised as abuse.
Councillor Lucy Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said: “Financial abuse is a hidden form of domestic abuse that can have a devastating impact on older people’s independence, wellbeing and quality of life.
“It often happens behind closed doors and is carried out by someone the victim knows and trusts. Through this campaign we want people across York to understand the signs of financial abuse, know that support is available and feel confident in seeking help for themselves or someone they are concerned about.
“Everyone has the right to make their own financial decisions and live free from abuse. By raising awareness together, we can help protect the most vulnerable members of our communities.”
A spokesperson for IDAS said: “Domestic abuse can happen to anyone at any age. Domestic abuse does not just happen within intimate relationships; it can occur between adults when one person tries to gain control over another.
“This could be a current or ex-partner, an adult child or other family member. IDAS is here to give emotional and practical support. Talking to us can help you to make sense of what is happening and feel more confident making decisions.
“We won’t ever tell you what to do. You do not need to report to the police to get support. If we are worried about your safety or the safety of any children, we will talk with you about this.”
Carl Wain, Deputy Chief Executive of Age UK York, said: “Financial abuse can strip older people of their confidence, independence and sense of security. It is often hidden in everyday situations and may be dismissed as a family matter when it is actually abuse.
“We are proud to support this campaign and encourage anyone who is worried about themselves, a friend, neighbour or family member to seek advice. The sooner concerns are identified, the sooner people can access the support they need.”
The campaign reinforces an important message: financial abuse doesn’t always come from strangers. Sometimes it comes from people we know, trust and love.
The signs of financial abuse may include:
- Taking money without permission
- Pressuring someone to hand over money or assets
- Controlling access to bank accounts or pensions
- Misusing a Power of Attorney
- Changing wills, deeds or financial arrangements through pressure or coercion
- Running up debts in someone else’s name
Anyone concerned about financial abuse can contact the following for help and advice:
- IDAS Telephone: 03000 110 110
- Age UK York Telephone: 01904 627995
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. For non-emergency police matters, call 101.
If you are worried about yourself or someone you know, don’t ignore it. Financial abuse is a form of domestic abuse, and help is available.