Biographical Info

Age Concern Taranaki provides a free and confidential Elder Abuse Response Service (EARS) for the whole Taranaki region. We work very closely and collaboratively with many support agencies across the Taranaki district including DHB’s, police, social workers, home-based support. Our professional Elder Abuse staff work with older people / kaumātua and their carers providing support and advocacy so that older people can be happy, healthy and safe from harm.

Age Concern Taranaki responds to any and all allegations of Elder Abuse Taranaki wide. Elder Abuse incudes Psychological abuse, Financial abuse, Neglect, Self-neglect, Physical abuse and Institutional abuse.

Anyone over the age of 65 can self-refer or be referred by someone else (family, friends, health professionals etc.) The EARS team pride ourselves on being able to engage with our Kaumātua and form meaningful relationships. We are able to provide advocacy for our clients with services such as Work and Income as well as support our clients to their appointments (GP, Lawyers etc.) when necessary.
EARS can facilitate Whanau Hui (family meetings) when clients want their families and loved ones involved in their support plans.

Our team consists of both Registered Social Workers and Nurses who complete holistic assessments to identify abuse and risk factors. Often safety plans are completed, and referrals are made to other relevant services such as Police and specialist services within Te Whatu Ora. This enables us to work collaboratively and ensure a wraparound approach to support our clients.

Where? Support is offered online, via phone, and in-person

When? Our offices are open Monday to Friday 8.30am-2pm. Or you can contact 0800 652 105 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Who? Those over 65 years old

Referrals are accepted from self, whānau/family, workplaces, GPs, and other health professionals.