Financial

Hourglass NI

Financial abuse is where someone in a position of trust interferes in an older person’s ability to acquire, use or maintain their finances. It is always a crime but not always prosecuted.

For example:

  • An abuser might exploit an older person by making demands for large transfers.
  • An abuser might control an older person's access to financial resources by refusing to let them access a bank account.
  • An abuser might sabotage an older person's ability to maintain financial security by building up debt in their name.

What are the signs of financial abuse/harm?

  • Signatures on cheques and documents that do not resemble the older person’s signature, or signed when the older person cannot write.
  • Sudden changes in bank accounts, including unexplained withdrawals of large sums of money by a person accompanying the older person.
  • The inclusion of additional names on an older person’s bank account.
  • Abrupt changes to or the sudden establishment of wills.
  • The sudden appearance of previously absent relatives claiming their rights to an older person’s affairs or possessions.
  • Someone moving into an older person’s house and living rent free, without agreement or under duress.
  • The unexplained sudden transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family.
  • Misuse of power of attorney, deputyship, appointeeship or other legal authority.
  • Numerous unpaid bills, or overdue rent, when someone else is supposed to be paying the bills.
  • Lack of amenities, such as TV, personal grooming items, appropriate clothing, that the older person should be able to afford.
  • The unexplained disappearance of funds or valuable possessions such as art, silverware, or jewellery.
  • Deliberate isolation of an older person from friends and family, resulting in the caregiver alone having total control.

To view a detailed brochure on financial abuse, click here.

Useful resources

The Age-Inclusive Learning Network brings professionals with an interest in age inclusion...
We provide vital domiciliary care services to support hundreds of individuals in Northern...
Hourglass volunteers are at the heart of our work. They are at the frontline for people...
Age NI, with the support of the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, is...
We know that looking after our physical health is important to ageing well. But it's...
We are all living longer, which means that the majority of us are likely to be working...
Cancer Focus NI, Keeping Well vans are mobile drop-in units which bring health checks,...
Age NI is offering an exciting new project aimed at supporting older people to live well...
This idea is a walk in the park. It really is that simple, post a news item to see how...
This includes: Raising awareness of depression and Aware NI services at a wide range of...
The Still Ready for Work programme supports people aged 50+ to remain in work, to change...
Age NI's First Connect service offers dedicated emotional and practical support at...
This is aimed at the over 55’s and is delivered to groups in community settings. The...
Age NI day centres provide a opportunity for activity and friendship for older people...
Having successfully been partners in Project Retain, the focus for the PHA and Age NI...
Cancer Focus NI can provide a wide range of presentations to meet the needs of your...
My Life, My Wellbeing is a new service which offers short-term support and reassurance...
Our Community Response programme highlights Hourglass’ commitment to further develop and...
Prostate Cancer UK have a team of trained volunteers throughout the UK who carry out...
Age NI teamed up with Lady Mary Peters to launch an exercise programme aimed specifically...
Our residential care services are recognised as models of best practice for people with...