GCVSI ANTI-ELDER ABUSE AND ANTI-MALTREATMENT SERVICE
In response to alarming statistics (Around 1 in 6 people 60 years and older) indicating the prevalence of abuse among older individuals according to WHOREAD MORE, GCVSI has launched the Anti-Elder Abuse and Anti-Maltreatment strategy, powered by technology to bring both caregivers (volunteers) and care recipients (Older Adults) on a common platform for a more coordinated and rapid response to cases of Elder Abuse, exploitation, negligence and maltreatment against. A dedicated initiative aimed at safeguarding the well-being and dignity of older adults.
How it Works: Members of the society are informedthrough robust social media and other traditional communication channels about the program where intended paid volunteers are encouraged to register on any of GCVSI platforms or in person in all the branches and affiliated partners. A thorough background check is conducted and identity cards and reference letters from religious and community institutions are documented, and the required training is conducted to improve the knowledge of care and support to older adults.
On the other hand, members of the public are encouraged to register their older adults or any older adults who may be prone to abuse, exploitation, neglect, and maltreatment on our platforms or through the GCVSI Anti-Abuse & anti-maltreatment Application on Google Play Store or ions. Once such a process is concluded, GCVSI focal person will then be dispatched to conduct a complete assessment of the older adult to develop an individualized care plan which would constitute key component of any volunteer attached to such care recipient.
The following information is needed during the registration process;
Bio data, including precise address and contact information, consent form, existing medical or physical impairments, next of kin, name and phone number of personal doctor and clinic and any other vital information.
The trained paid volunteers are paired with Older Adults close to their localities or sometimes asked to travel far to support an older adult in communities where volunteers are absent depending on the urgency and condition of the affected older adult. A hotline is also provided to members of the public through which abuses, exploitation, negligence and maltreatment are reported for rapid response.
The initiative seeks to empower women who make up a huge number of the paid volunteer workforce and increase their knowledge through capacity building while promoting citizen-led actions for the mainstreaming of Older Adults into the SDGs, an integral part of WHO integrated community care for Older Adults. The GCVSI paid volunteers would render the following services;
- Protective Intervention by Paid Volunteers:
GCVSI deploys trained and compassionate paid volunteers within or near the community of older individuals to act as vigilant protectors. These volunteers serve as a proactive measure against potential abuse, offering a supportive presence that deters maltreatment and provides immediate assistance when needed
- Safeguarding Personal Belongings:
Our service goes beyond emotional support by ensuring the physical protection of the elderly. Paid volunteers assist in safeguarding the possessions of older individuals, preventing any form of mishandling or misappropriation. This includes valuable items, property, and personal belongings, reinforcing a sense of security and trust.
- Facilitating Reporting to Relevant Authorities:
GCVSI recognizes the importance of empowering older adults to voice their concerns and seek justice. Paid volunteers are equipped to assist the elderly in laying complaints to the relevant authorities when instances of abuse or maltreatment arise. This proactive approach aims to facilitate timely intervention and hold perpetrators accountable.
- Emotional Support and Companionship:
The GCVSI service extends beyond physical protection to address the emotional well-being of older individuals. Paid volunteers offer companionship, empathy, and a listening ear, creating a supportive environment that fosters emotional resilience. This aspect of the service is crucial in combating the isolation often experienced by victims of elder abuse.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement and Social Services:
GCVSI actively collaborates with law enforcement agencies and social services to create a comprehensive support system. This collaboration ensures a coordinated response to reported cases of elder abuse, emphasizing the importance of legal consequences for perpetrators and providing victims with access to necessary social services.
- Educational Outreach Programs:
Prevention is a key component of GCVSI’s initiative. We conduct educational outreach programs within communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, its signs, and the available support services. By fostering community awareness, we aim to create an environment where elder abuse is not tolerated, and individuals are encouraged to report any suspicions or concerns.
- Empowering Older Adults through Legal Advocacy:
GCVSI recognizes the need for legal advocacy to empower older adults who may be hesitant to report abuse. Our initiative involves providing legal support and guidance, ensuring that victims are informed of their rights and have the necessary resources to pursue legal action against perpetrators.
- Continuous Training for Paid Volunteers:
To enhance the effectiveness of our service, GCVSI is committed to providing continuous training for paid volunteers. This training covers topics such as recognizing signs of abuse, communication skills, and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that volunteers are well-equipped to handle the complex dynamics of elder abuse situations.
The GCVSI Ant-Elder Abuse and Anti-Maltreatment Service embody our commitment to creating a society where older adults can age with dignity, free from the fear of abuse. Through a combination of proactive measures, community engagement, and supportive interventions, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our elderly community members.
Quality Assurance / Monitoring & Evaluation
GCVSI make use of a technology-driven reporting system through which empirical facts and evidence-based proof of volunteers’ engagements are reported. The monitoring and evaluation activities are obtained from both our volunteers and the close relations or members of the communities in which the older adults live. Apart from pictorial and video evidence which the volunteers are expected to forward to GCVSI’s officials, receipts of shopped items, feedback and testimonies from close relations and community members are equally used as quality assurance affirmatives.
Random unscheduled visits by GCVSI officials to older adults’ homes and communities for an on-the-spot assessment is equally a veritable strategy to validate volunteers’ performances. A personal phone call to the older adults themselves to hear their experiences with the volunteers is also conducted.