Following the publication of a report by the National Council on Ageing and Older People entitled Abuse, Neglect and Mistreatment of Older People: An Exploratory Study, I established a broad based working group, as recommended in the report, to advise on the formulation of procedures and guidelines on elder abuse. The group is chaired by Dr. Desmond O'Neill, consultant physician in medicine of old age.
The working group has a broad remit in relation to making recommendations as to how elder abuse can best be overcome and advising on appropriate structures, including any necessary changes in legislation and legal procedures to deal with the problem. I have made the necessary resources available to enable the group to complete the comprehensive work programme which it has set out and which includes the organisation of pilot projects, the implementation of awareness and training programmes and the preparation of an evaluation report.
I am aware that the working group has reached agreement on draft policies, procedures and guidelines for the detection, assessment and management of elder abuse. Pilot projects in two community care areas are expected to start from January next. Training programmes will be provided for staff members and ongoing evaluation will take place. When the working group makes its final report and recommendations to me, I will give immediate consideration to the implementation of the group's recommendations.
