Personal Safety

Whilst seniors have a right to feel safe all of the time, it is vital that they prepare themselves to recognise crime risk situations and take steps to prevent them. This section provides information on offences that may occur to older people and referral pathways to obtain support.

Elder abuse

Elder abuse is a relatively recent term for a form of mistreatment that, in reality, is just one part of a spectrum of violence that occurs when differences in power exist in relationships between people. Elder abuse can be defined as “any act occurring within a relationship where there is an implication of trust, which results in harm to an older person. Abuse can include physical, sexual, financial, psychological and social abuse and/or neglect”.

With the increasing number of people over the age of 65 years, incidents of elder abuse are also likely to increase. Addressing elder abuse requires a multi-faceted approach and the Queensland Police Service is working with other government and non-government agencies to address this emerging need. Some types of elder abuse are a criminal offence and can be reported to your local police station.

The Elder Abuse Prevention Unit, funded by the Department of Communities operates a State-wide telephone information, support and referral service for anyone experiencing abuse or witnessing the abuse of an older person. Callers may choose to remain anonymous and can call the HELPLINE on 1300 651 192 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday for the cost of a local call from anywhere in Queensland. The Elder Abuse Prevention Unit website can be located at: www.eapu.com.au

Domestic violence

The Queensland Police Service recognises domestic violence as a serious problem in the community. The Queensland Police Service is committed to providing an appropriate, effective and professional response ensuring the people of Queensland are safer and that victims receive the maximum protection under the law. In 2003, amendments to domestic violence legislation provided broader protection to members of the community.

Relationships which are protected include:

(a) a spousal relationship;
(b) an intimate personal relationship;
(c) a family relationship; and
(d) an informal care relationship.

These amendments now allow seniors, who are subject to domestic violence by a family member or informal carer, to be protected by a Domestic Violence Order. An informal care relationship exists where someone is assisting another in their daily living activities because of a disability, illness or impairment but does not include a relationship where a carer is paid a fee for their services.

If you, or someone you know, is subject to domestic violence contact your local police station to discuss options or visit the Queensland Police Service Domestic Violence website at: www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/crimeprevention/dv/whats_dv.htm

Additional information and advice can be obtained from DV Connect:

Womensline (24 hours) 1800 811 811
Mensline (9am - 12 midnight, 7 days) 1800 600 636

Personal safety

The Queensland Police Service acknowledges everyone has the right to safety and a lifestyle without fear. The Personal Safety Strategies Program, which is delivered by the Queensland Police Service, provides quality personal safety information to members of the community. The topics covered by this program aim to provide empowering personal safety information which will enhance the quality of life for seniors, rather than place limitations on them.

Queensland Police Service members are available to attend the homes or residential care facilities of seniors to provide personal safety strategy presentations. To inquire about the availability of presentations in your area, please contact your local police station or the District Crime Prevention Coordinator. Further information can be located
on the Queensland Police Service Personal Safety website at:
www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/personalsafety

TourSafe

The Queensland Police Service wants seniors to enjoy themselves and remain safe during their holiday. Whether you are backpacking on a budget, or living it up on your holiday of a lifetime, TourSafe Queensland is designed to help you have a safer and more enjoyable holiday.

TourSafe Queensland can provide seniors with helpful information on many holiday activities, including travel hints, personal safety, safe driving suggestions and accommodation tips. TourSafe information can be obtained on the Queensland Police Service TourSafe website at: www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/personalsafety/toursafe

Drugs and the law

Most people, including seniors, use some kind of legal drugs — tobacco, alcohol, medicines and caffeine are part of everyday life.

Other illegal drugs like marijuana and ‘speed’ are a regular part of life for some people too. In Queensland, most drugs are governed by laws and regulations, and the penalties for misusing drugs can be harsh. Think about the drugs that you use.

The booklet Drugs and the Law in the Sunshine State provides comprehensive information about this issue and can be obtained from your local police station.

If the abuse of alcohol or other drugs is causing problems for you or someone you care about, there are many people and organisations in the community who can help. The Alcohol and Drug Information Service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This service can be contacted by calling (07) 3236 2414 or toll free 1800 177 833 (outside
of Brisbane).

Further information can be found on the Queensland Police Service Drug and Alcohol website at: www.police.qld.gov.au/services/drugs/