The Brant Elder Abuse Awareness Committee releases 2020 Seniors Resources

Brantford, ON – In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, acknowledged globally on June 15, 2020, the Brant Elder Abuse Awareness Committee has released the 2020 Seniors Toolkit, a practical handbook for seniors to find resources and information on staying safe and keeping healthy, along with an Elder Abuse Awareness Video and Service Provider Protocol.

“We are pleased to offer the 2020 Seniors Toolkit to the community and raise awareness to the abuse and suffering inflicted to some of our older generations,” says Councillor Carpenter, Chair of the Brant Elder Abuse Awareness Committee. “It is important to bring attention to this issue, and we’re proud to add our voices to the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day campaign.”

The Brant Elder Abuse Awareness Committee is made up of agencies and volunteers in Brantford-Brant who are working collectively to facilitate educational workshops that promote the critical need for awareness of the issue of elder abuse, and provide the public with available tools and resources that can help the lives of seniors.

“The Safer and Vital Community grant expanded the capacity for the Brant Elder Abuse Awareness Committee to promote awareness of elder abuse through education and training with our seniors and agencies in our community," Says Penny McVicar, executive director of Victim Services of Brant. "We are fortunate to have a committee and City committed to empowering and educating our community on the seriousness of elder abuse.”

Digital copies of these important resources are available at www.victimservicesbrant.on.ca and brantford.ca/HealthyLiving. The Brant Elder Abuse Awareness Committee is planning to host a future launch event to connect with the community and provide hard copies at a later date to be announced.

For more information on Elder Abuse and the program materials, please contact vsb@victimservicesbrant.on.ca or call 519-752-3140.

The month of June is also Seniors Month. During this time when we are still encouraged to stay apart to protect our and the safety of others, the community is reminded to continue to connect with loved ones, friends, and neighbours, and to explore ways to support and keep the older adults in your lives engaged. Call, video chat, or provide a helping hand to drop off groceries and other necessities, while maintaining physical distancing.

For more information regarding support services for those in need who may require assistance due to COVID-19 preventative measures still in place, please visit brantford.ca/NeighboursHelpingNeighbours

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Media Contact:
Kelly Page, Communications Specialist, Communications and Community Engagement | City of Brantford | Office: 519.759.4150 Ext. 5741 | kpage@brantford.ca