A NEW campaign is shining a light on the financial abuse of older people.

The move, part of the 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Abuse, aims to raise awareness of how domestic abuse can also take the form of coercive and controlling behaviour.

The campaign is being run by West Yorkshire Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner for West Yorkshire and the Violence Reduction Unit. A spokesperson said: “Financial control of older people often takes the form of a younger member of the family, such as a son, daughter or grandchild, only visiting when they need money.

“They persuade the older person to give them it or can become violent or threatening. In many cases the older person understands what is happening but is reluctant to report it because they are worried that the young person won’t visit anymore.”

Head of Safeguarding at West Yorkshire Police, Chief Superintendent Joanne Morgan, added: “The misconception is that domestic abuse has to be physical. This simply isn’t the case, there are people living with all kinds of abusive behaviour from controlling behaviour to financial abuse. Our number one priority is protecting the victim and any other people that could be vulnerable.”

Anyone suffering from abuse or who suspects it is happening to someone they know is asked to call 101, or 999 in an emergency. Incidents can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.