Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2026


Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is supporting World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June 2026. Cloonavin will be illuminated in purple to help raise awareness of the abuse, neglect and exploitation of older people.

The day is part of a global effort to highlight the importance of protecting the dignity, safety and rights of older people. If you are concerned about an older person or are experiencing abuse yourself, support services are listed below.

If you or an older person in Northern Ireland is experiencing abuse, exploitation, or neglect, help is available. Concerns will be taken seriously and treated in confidence by trained professionals who can investigate and put safety measures in place.

You do not need proof to raise a concern — if something feels wrong, it is better to report it.

Immediate Help

In an emergency

  • Dial 999 if someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical assistance.

Non-emergency police

  • Dial 101 to report concerns or historical incidents of abuse.

Safeguarding Support (Health and Social Care Trusts)

If you are worried about an older person, you can contact your local Adult Protection Gateway Team:

Northern Health and Social Care Trust
Tel: 028 9441 3659

Western Health and Social Care Trust
Tel: 028 8283 5980

Out of Hours Support

If you need help outside normal office hours (5:00 pm – 9:00 am), contact:

Regional Emergency Social Work Service
Tel: 028 9504 9999

Specialist Helplines

Hourglass (Safer Ageing Helpline)
Tel: 0808 808 8141
Available Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm
Confidential support for older people affected by abuse, neglect or exploitation.

Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline (Northern Ireland)
Tel: 0808 802 1414
Available 24/7
Support for anyone affected by domestic or sexual abuse, regardless of age.

Age NI Advice Line
Tel: 0808 808 7575
Available 8:00 am–7:00 pm
Information, advice, and advocacy for older people and those supporting them.

Speak to a Professional You Trust

You can also speak confidentially to any trusted professional, including:

  • Your GP
  • District nurse
  • Social worker
  • Community or health professional

They can help you raise a safeguarding concern and contact the relevant services on your behalf.

Remember

Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, sexual abuse, and neglect. It often happens within relationships where trust already exists, which can make it harder to identify and report.

You are not alone, and support is available. Reaching out early can help protect you or someone you care about.