News release, 15th June 2009  World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Newsflash PR 4009

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple….

poetry unites Suffolk's homes in a stand against the abuse of older people
For the first time ever, residential homes across Suffolk are uniting as one to raise awareness of abuse of older people. Residents and staff will show their support and strength in a county wide event co-ordinated for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (15 June). Suffolk County Council's residential homes will be marking the day with staff and residents wearing something purple. There will be public readings of the internationally known poem "Warning" by Jenny Jones which starts "When I am an old woman I shall wear purple.....
Speaking before the day Bill Nicol, Head of Suffolk’s Adult Safeguarding Services, said:
" The abuse of older people is something which we want to eradicate. However, to make that happen we need to empower people to spot the signs and then to report it. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a key date when we, no matter what our age, can show everyone in the county that we want to end elder abuse and neglect forever.”
He continued:
“The wearing of purple today sends out a message that being older does not mean you are powerless, it is a sign of strength and solidarity against mistreatment and neglect. You only have to imagine what your own feelings would be, and the devastating knock-on effects, if abuse was to affect someone close to you. Remember, secrecy and 'turning a blind eye' is the ally of abuse. We all have a responsibility to voice concerns if we have them. Only then can we take action to tackle it. Today is about giving the power back to people to recognise the signs of abuse and not to tolerate it."

ENDS  Notes to Editors

1. A list of residential homes taking part is attached and media are welcome to attend the poetry reading.
2. What to do if you suspect abuse of a vulnerable person:

• Your first priority is to take any urgent action appropriate to protect the vulnerable adult from any immediate risk or danger; this includes calling the Police or Ambulance if necessary.
• Remember you are not alone there are professional specialists who can provide help and support through the process.
• Check the Adult Safeguarding website www.suffolkas.org where you will also find an electronic referral form as well as more information.
• You should act in accordance with the vulnerable person’s wishes where possible but DO NOT agree to keep your concerns a secret.
• Now it’s free of charge to contact Suffolk County Council's social care services - on 0808 800 4005.

  Warning by Jenny Joseph

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple

With a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me.

And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves

And satin sandals, and say we've no money for butter.

I shall sit down on the pavement when I'm tired

And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells

And run my stick along the public railings

And make up for the sobriety of my youth.

I shall go out in my slippers in the rain

And pick flowers in other people's gardens

And learn to spit.

You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat

And eat three pounds of sausages at a go

Or only bread and pickle for a week

And hoard pens and pencils and beermats and things in boxes.

But now we must have clothes that keep us dry

And pay our rent and not swear in the street

And set a good example for the children.

We must have friends to dinner and read the papers.

But maybe I ought to practice a little now?

So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised

When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple.

ENDS