Animations

Hidden harms animation

Abuse can occur at any age and is often under reported when it related to adults over the age of 65.

Safeguarding often considers 'carer’s stress' when incidents occur, and while one-off events do happen, it needs to be explored to see if there are any patterns or history. Based on the power and control wheel as adapted by Dewis Choice, the aim of this short animation is to help support practitioners and families start a conversation with an older adult.

We know from research that this is a very sensitive topic to talk about. Older adults may be more reluctant to talk about problems at home due to experiential, cultural, and social factors, and this combined with ageing and subsequent care needs leaves them vulnerable to having domestic abuse overlooked.

The Hidden Harms animation has been co-created by survivors aged between 60 and 93 years old from Dewis Choice, who are now in recovery and living free from harm, fear and abuse. Talking to someone about the behaviour will not mean having to make decisions you are not ready for, but it will create options to help you get the support you need to feel safer and happier.

We would like to thank Norfolk Safeguarding Adults Board for granting permission to adapt this animation for Derbyshire and Derby Safeguarding Adults Boards and Derbyshire and Derby City Safer Communities Boards.