What ARAS can assist with
ARAS can provide information and advocacy support where an older person is experiencing, or is at risk of experiencing, abuse within a relationship of trust.
This may include:
- physical abuse;
- psychological or emotional abuse;
- financial abuse;
- sexual abuse;
- neglect;
- social abuse;
- coercive or controlling behaviour; and
- other abuse or mistreatment involving a person with whom the older person has a relationship of trust.
ARAS can support the older person to:
- identify and understand concerns about abuse or mistreatment;
- understand their rights;
- explore available options and strategies;
- identify actions that may help reduce risk or improve safety;
- communicate concerns to relevant organisations where the older person wants ARAS to assist;
- access appropriate safeguarding, legal or specialist services; and
- make informed decisions about how they wish to respond.
Safeguarding and referrals
Where appropriate, ARAS can support older people to understand and access safeguarding and other relevant services, including the Adult Safeguarding Unit, Department of Human Services, and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission where the matter relates to aged care.
ARAS does not confront an alleged abuser, as this may increase the risk to the older person or the advocate.
Where there is an immediate risk of harm or an emergency, appropriate emergency services should be contacted.
