The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Eddie Lynch, has published a report highlighting the distinct harms experienced by older victims of domestic abuse. The report, Growing Concern: Older Victims of Domestic Abuse in Northern Ireland, was published in response to recent statistics which revealed domestic abuse among older people in Northern Ireland was on the rise. The report examines the impact of domestic abuse and the unique circumstances which may stop older victims from receiving the support they need.
Statistics from the Police Service of Northern Ireland published last year* show a significant increase in reported domestic abuse crimes against individuals aged 60 and over— from 450 cases in 2012/13 to 1,567 cases in 2022/23. While this increase may reflect greater societal awareness and willingness to report such crimes, the Commissioner for Older People says it highlights a pressing need for tailored interventions to support older victims.
Speaking about his report, the Commissioner, Eddie Lynch said:
“Domestic abuse is harrowing and deeply damaging for all victims, but this report seeks to highlight the several additional, distinct factors that older people face which can exacerbate their vulnerabilities and impact. For instance, older people in Northern Ireland are more likely to have a disability which can greatly lessen their ability to protect themselves.”
“Many older individuals internalize abuse, seeing it as a private matter, which contributes to prolonged suffering. Mental ill health, cognitive decline, or reduced mental capacity can limit an older person’s understanding that their experiences even constitute domestic abuse.
“Even when a crime is recognised, older individuals often face unique barriers to reporting and intervention. There is some evidence that older victims are more likely to live with domestic abuse for prolonged periods of time. There are indications of increased concerns among older victims of the consequences of reporting, in terms of breakdown of familial relationships, their family member obtaining a criminal record, and fear of experiencing loneliness and isolation.”
The Commissioner is calling for improved data collection on the levels and nature of domestic abuse experienced by older people; the introduction of interventions to address barriers to reporting and accessing support; and more awareness regarding the provision of support services that are tailored to addressing the needs of older victims.
The Commissioner said: “The rise in reported cases demands the need to address these issues faced by older people so we can reduce unnecessary barriers that are preventing them from receiving the services, protections and support they both need and deserve.”
