North Wales MS Mark Isherwood has tabled a Statement of Opinion (SoO) in the Senedd/Welsh Parliament to coincide with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
Mr Isherwood has submitted the following SoO and called on Members of the Senedd to support it:
This Senedd:
- Notes that 15 June 2025 marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a global call to end abuse, harm, exploitation, and neglect of older people;
- Recognises the vital work of Hourglass, the only UK-wide charity dedicated to ending abuse of older people, including its economic abuse hub and services in Wales;
- Expresses concern that over 2.5 million older people are affected by abuse each year, with stigma and underreporting major barriers to justice;
- Calls for full implementation and annual review of the Welsh Government’s National Action Plan;
- Supports a Safer Ageing Strategy for Wales.
Mr Isherwood said:
“World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed each year on 15th June. It is a global campaign dedicated to highlighting the abuse of older people — one of the worst manifestations of ageism and inequality in our society.
“This year’s theme, ‘Growing the Conversation’, is a powerful call to action. Hourglass Cymru are asking people to speak up, listen and challenge the deafening silence surrounding abuse, harm, exploitation and neglect of older people.”
To find out more about what can be done to end elder abuse, visit: WEAAD 2025 | Hourglass
If you or someone you know is being abused, call the Hourglass 24/7 Helpline 0808 808 8141