Advocacy services in Wales under threat of closure

Advocacy projects for elderly people in Wales are facing closure due to a lack of funds, Age Concern Cymru has reported.

A survey by the charity found that only half of Welsh organisations working with older people provide an advocacy service. About a third of these will have to stop or operate on reduced funding over the next 12 months.

The survey highlights a lack of understanding over the role of advocacy services, with only 13% of respondents being able to give a clear working definition of the service. 

Lack of specialist training was also highlighted in the survey as a major issue with 40% of advocates requesting more sessions on elder abuse, focusing on identifying and reporting abuse, along with financial abuse and human rights legislation.

Age Concern Cymru estimates that 6% of elderly people face abuse but because of an “insufficient investment in advocacy” their voices are not being heard.

The report was launched today in Cardiff by the deputy minister of health and social services, Gwenda Thomas, and Welsh Assembly member Leanne Wood.    

More information

Age Concern Cymru 

Gwenda Thomas, National Assembly for Wales

Leanne Wood, National Assembly for Wales 

Essential information on elderly people    

Laing and Buisson: Care home decline set to end

Older People

Assessing the mental health needs of older people