Safeguarding

Your security is important to us

We will always make an appointment with clients in advance.  Our handypersons, gardeners and Domestic Care Workers, and other members of our workforce who visit people at home, carry proof of identity - please ask to see it before you let them into your home.  They will be happy to show you their identity card with photo.

Where appropriate, all members of our workforce who visit people at home (in particular handypersons, gardeners, domestic care workers) are DBS (Disclosure and Barring) checked - formerly Criminal Records Bureau, or CRB. 

If you are ever unsure about anyone who calls at your home saying they are from Age UK Northamptonshire, or Age UK (or even Age Concern or Help the Aged), for whatever reason, please ring us on 01604 611200.  We will be happy to clarify their identity and to set your mind at rest.

Being vulnerable but respected

As we get older, we may need support with carrying out daily living tasks or with organising our finances.  Although most people will be trustworthy, being reliant on other people can make us more vulnerable to abuse.

It is important to take certain steps to stay in control of our own decisions, and to be aware that we always have a right to be listened to and respected.

Elder abuse

Abuse can take many forms.  It can be financial, emotional, physical or sexual, and it doesn't always involve a stranger.  Abuse stories in the media are often about people having their savings stolen, but any type of abuse is wrong.

For example, it could be someone you trust taking cash for themselves when you've asked them to do your shopping.  Or you could be spoken to or touched in a way that makes you feel upset or uncomfortable.

Getting support and advice

If you have been abused, you can get advice and support by calling Age UK advice on 0800 169 65 65 or Action on Elder Abuse.  Be aware that if you think you are at risk, they have a duty to report it.  However, they should talk to you about how you want to handle it.

You can also call your local council's Adult Safeguarding team.  In Northamptonshire the number is 0300 126 1000 during office hours, 01604 626938 outside office hours.

If you would like to speak to someone local call our information and advice service Monday - Friday, 9am - 12 noon on 0845 677 2220 (calls are charged at local rate) and we will direct you to someone who can help.