Older people experience domestic abuse at similar rates to younger people but evidence shows they are less likely to report the abuse or seek support. In addition, older people are just as likely to be abused by a family member as by an intimate partner.
Older people's experiences of domestic abuse have some unique features compared to younger victims/survivors such as increased risk due to health or disability issues and potential abuse from family members providing care. This can mean that using the standard DASH Risk Assessment Checklist results in a lower risk score for older victims/survivors so professional judgement becomes paramount, however PJ can vary depending on the knowledge of the practitioner.
To try to address these issues, we are piloting an Older People's DASH for a 6 month period from 1st August 2021 across Health and Social Care (although practitioners and volunteers from any organisation working with older people are encouraged to use it as well). The OP DASH is for use with victims/survivors of domestic abuse aged over 60.
You can access the OP DASH below. We have also developed some guidance for any professional working with older people and domestic abuse - this is also available below.
Supporting Older LGBTQ+ Survivors of Domestic Abuse
The Dewis Choice Project has worked with older LGBTQ+ survivors of domestic abuse, and key professionals, to develop this new guidance on best practice for supporting these victims.
We encourage all practitioners and volunteers who work with older people to read and use this guidance to ensure older LGBT+ abuse survivors get the best help and support.
The guidance can be downloaded below.
Domestic Abuse and Dementia
The Dewis Choice Project has developed a toolkit for practitioners working with people where there is domestic abuse and dementia. The toolkit aims to address gaps in practitioners’ knowledge on the co-existence of domestic abuse and dementia. The toolkit offers practical advice to professionals and includes a safety planning tool.
The DASV Partnership are looking to develop some bespoke training around this subject for delivery later in the year.
Dementia related illness isn't limited to older people but we thought this was the best place to put the information.
The DA & Dementia Toolkit can be downloaded below.