Leading the fight against      adult abuse

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Our media work

Although the moral arguments are powerful for addressing the abuse of older people and other adults at risk of abuse, the reality is that it is only through media exposure that the issue stays on the political agenda.  When issues of abuse receive coverage in local or national news papers, or on radio or TV, we invariably witness progress in improving safeguarding.

In recent years there has been an increase in reporting of elder abuse cases and this is probably a consequence of both increased awareness and action by regulators, care providers and adult protection staff.  But we continue to address less than one-tenth of elder abuse, and probably much less.  Which is why the Government's failure to introduce framework legislation for adult protection is so devastating.

in this section you can find the latest reports on elder abuse in the media, obtain details of major consultations or events, volunteer to speak to the media, and obtain information as a journalist on how we can work with you.

Latest News

Every day we receive reports of adult abuse issues, primarily from local newspapers but increasingly from national ones too.  There is also an increase in undercover reporting by major broadcasters.  Click here for the latest reports.

What these reports do not show is that most elder abuse happens in people's own homes, often perpetrated by their own families - which is the part of elder abuse that legislation does not yet reach...  

Our work with the media

AEA has undertaken extensive work with both the print and broadcast media since 2001.  We see this as a major means by which we raise general awareness of elder abuse, as well as highlighting failures in current systems of regulation or care provision.  Journalists, reporters and production staff require a particular approach in order to generate quality coverage of what is a very complex issue, and AEA provide the infrastructure and support to allow that to happen.  Click here for further information.

Do you want to tell your story

When raising awareness, nothing has the same impact as someone telling their own story.  And your story could play a vital role in helping to highlight and expose the issues that lead to abuse.  We can help you speak to media staff, and guide and support you through the process.  We have extensive knowledge in this regard so you can be assured of our help and effectiveness in making sure that this is a positive experience for you.  Click here for more information.

AEA in the news

AEA regularly comments upon events, or publishes information and reports, or engages in public activities to promote issues related to elder abuse.  Click here to see what we've been doing.