If someone is misusing an older person's social welfare payment, the Department of Social Protection has its own Safeguarding Unit: 071 9193259.
Quick facts
- Emergency
- 999 or 112
- HSE line
- 1800 700 700
- Garda confidential
- 1800 666 111
- Welfare payment abuse
- DSP Safeguarding, 071 9193259
- Report online
- HSE Adult Safeguarding Portal
What elder abuse is
"Elder abuse is the abuse of someone aged 65 or over and it happens in a relationship where there is an expectation of trust." It can be psychological, physical, sexual, neglect, discrimination, poor institutional care, or financial.
Financial abuse includes "Theft, fraud, exploitation, pressure in connection with wills, property or inheritance, or financial transactions, or the misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits".
Reporting it
"If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger, call An Garda Síochána on 999 or 112." "The HSE has Safeguarding and Protection Teams in every region of the country." You can also report through the HSE Adult Safeguarding Portal, or tell a GP, public health nurse or bank.
"Or, if confidentiality is required, phone the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111."
Pensions and welfare payments
"If you have concerns about financial abuse of your social welfare payment, or the social welfare payment of someone you know, contact Safeguarding Unit, Department of Social Protection, College Road, Sligo, F91 T384, or email safeguarding@welfare.ie , or call 071 9193259."
An enduring power of attorney and other decision support arrangements help keep control of money in trusted hands.
Common questions
How do I report elder abuse in Ireland?
Contact the HSE Safeguarding and Protection Team, the HSE Information Line on 1800 700 700, or the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111. In immediate danger, ring 999 or 112.
What is financial elder abuse?
Theft, fraud, exploitation, pressure over wills or property, or misusing an older person's money, possessions or benefits.
Who do I contact if someone is taking an older person's pension?
The Department of Social Protection's Safeguarding Unit on 071 9193259 or safeguarding@welfare.ie.