Neglected and taboo: tackling problem of violence and abuse hidden victims
West Mercia Women's Aid says sexual violence and abuse can happen to any woman anywhere, at any age
Women’s groups across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are coming together to highlight older people being victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse.
Herefordshire Women's Equality Group together with West Mercia Women's Aid, West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre and Age UK said they want to highlight the local and national problem of older women being the “hidden victims” of violence and abuse.
The multi-agency group organising an event in Hereford this weekend want to raise awareness as they say for far too long it has been a “neglected and taboo issue”.
“Age doesn't protect a woman from male violence and abuse and older women are often hidden victims,” a spokesperson said.
In the Femicide Census 2020, 22 women aged 66 and over (20 per cent of all victims) were killed by men, with the oldest victim being 89 years old.
Helen Richardson, from West Mercia Women's Aid, said: “Sexual violence, violence and abuse in all forms can, sadly, happen to any woman anywhere, at any age.
“People are often shocked when it happens as they think it doesn't happen to older women – but it does.
“We hope by asking the question ‘how safe is Herefordshire for older women?’ we'll highlight the barriers faced by older women and raise awareness that women can be and are victims and survivors in need of help and support - no matter how old they are.”
The free public event is being held on Saturday 2nd September at 10am at the Kindle Centre, Belmont Road, and will give a national and local perspective on older women as “hidden victims” of violence and abuse.
Key speakers in the line-up include the chief executive of Women's Aid Sue Coleman, West Mercia Rape and Sexual Assault Support Centre’s boss Jocelyn Anderson and Age UK’s Hereford and Localities chief Sue Mosley.
It will be chaired by Dr Jane McLean from Herefordshire Women's Equality Group and will include a question-and-answer session.