Elder Abuse Work: Best Practice in Britain and Canada

The abuse, neglect and exploitation of older people in community and residential care settings is increasingly being recognised and addressed as a serious social concern in Britain. In Canada, where the issue has had a much higher profile, different forms of practice have developed.

Elder Abuse Work gives an overview of the developments and issues in both countries and draws out good practice guidelines. The chapters analyse research, theory, policy development, legislation, practice issues, resources and new ideas. The specific aspects covered include clinical practice developments, cross-agency coordination, 'self-help' for older people, awareness raising, financial abuse, and the medical and police perspectives. Innovative models for abuse intervention which have been generated in Canada are described and assessed. The book includes ideas for training and tested training exercises. The contributors are drawn from a wide range of settings in both voluntary and statutory agencies, as well as the academic world.

This exhaustive volume will guide and inspire the direct work of anyone involved in the care of older people who have been victims of abuse, as well as informing and focusing the decisions of managers and policy makers on the central issues of concern.

Jacki Pritchard is a qualified social worker who has worked as a practitioner and manager in both fieldwork and hospital settings. She is currently working as a trainer, consultant and researcher focusing on abuse, risk and violence.