AM calls for legislation to tackle elder abuse
12 Mehefin 2009
Plaid Cymru Assembly Member for South Wales West, Bethan Jenkins, has called for legislation to tackle abuse against older and vulnerable people.
During First Minister’s questions on the 3rd of June, Ms Jenkins cited a recent BBC Panorama investigation into abuse of elderly people. Ms Jenkins has backed calls by numerous campaign groups including Action on Elder Abuse who argue that the current guidance system is insufficient.
Speaking from the Senedd, Ms Jenkins said:
“Whilst the guidance issued to local authorities on elder abuse has been useful in terms of establishing mechanisms for protecting older and vulnerable people, a lack of legislative duty has lead to inconsistencies across local authority areas in terms of funding and indeed in the level of protection for older and vulnerable people.
“I believe clear legislation, matched with increased investment will create effective mechanisms to protect older and vulnerable people and I call on the Assembly Government to consider this.”ENDS
Notes to Editors
