A suite of new practical training resources to help frontline workers detect and respond to the abuse of older women and women with disability has been launched by the NSW government.
The training resources support frontline workers to identify signs of abuse, while offering tips for documenting family, domestic and sexual violence and safety planning, supporting survivors to report and responding to disclosures of abuse.
It comes as the latest statistics reveal a 109 per cent rise in reports of abuse against older people and people with disability. There have been nearly 19,000 reports received over a five-year period.
The Ageing and Disability Commission has partnered with the NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner to deliver the resources.
“No-one should be subjected to violence or abuse, especially not older women or women with disability,” Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said.
“But domestic, family and sexual violence is a horrifying reality for too many older women and women with disability, who face significantly higher rates of abuse.
“The NSW government is committed to addressing this sickening issue. These resources equip frontline workers across the state, with the tools to recognise, refer and respond to this abuse.”
Since the start of the NSW Ageing and Disability Commission, 64 per cent of reports have been about the alleged abuse of women.
And alarmingly, up to 80 per cent of assaults against older women reported to police each year are committed by someone they know.
NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the abuse of older persons and people with disability is unacceptable.
“Older women are one of the most at-risk groups in NSW – with those over 65 more likely to face homelessness, financial abuse and domestic, family and sexual violence than men in the same age bracket,” she said.
“These resources support frontline workers to identify the signs of domestic, family and sexual abuse of older persons and people with disability and provide guidance on how to respond to disclosures.”
Women’s Safety Commissioner in NSW Dr Hannah Tonkin said domestic, family and sexual violence disproportionately affects groups like older women and women with disability.
“This new suite of training resources has been developed to address this reality,” Tonkin said.
“The resources provide practical guidance about recognising the signs of abuse, safely responding to disclosures, and accessing appropriate reporting and referral pathways. Vitally, these resources are person centred, disability inclusive and trauma informed – they deserve to be widely used across NSW.”
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000.
If you need help and advice call 1800 Respect on 1800 737 732, Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.