A new city-wide campaign has launched in York to raise awareness of financial abuse against older people, help residents recognise the warning signs and encourage those affected to seek support.
Led by City of York Council in partnership with Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), Age UK York and local community organisations, the campaign aims to highlight a form of domestic abuse that can often go unnoticed.
Financial abuse can happen at any age and may be carried out by someone a person knows, trusts or loves, including a partner, adult child or other family member.
The campaign will feature posters, videos, leaflets and community outreach activities, with information shared through libraries, GP surgeries, pharmacies and community venues across York.
Recognising the signs of financial abuse
Financial abuse is a form of domestic abuse that involves controlling, exploiting or misusing another person’s money, property or financial resources.
It can happen gradually and may be difficult to recognise, particularly when the person responsible is a family member or someone trusted.
Signs of financial abuse can include:
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Taking money without permission
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Pressuring someone to hand over money, savings or assets
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Controlling access to bank accounts or pensions
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Misusing a Power of Attorney
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Pressuring someone to change their will or financial arrangements
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Running up debts in someone else’s name
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Preventing someone from making their own financial decisions
Financial abuse can have a serious impact on a person’s independence, confidence, wellbeing and quality of life.
Raising awareness across York
The campaign uses real-life scenarios to help people recognise situations that might otherwise be dismissed as family disagreements or private financial matters.
These include an adult child taking money from a parent’s bank account without permission, or a partner preventing someone from accessing their own money.
The campaign also aims to encourage friends, family members, neighbours and community organisations to recognise potential warning signs and help people access support.
Councillor Lucy Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said:
“Everyone has the right to make their own financial decisions and live free from abuse. By raising awareness together, we can help protect the most vulnerable members of our communities.”
Support is available
If you’re experiencing financial abuse, or are worried about someone you know, you don’t have to deal with it alone.
Support is available from local organisations that can provide advice, guidance and practical help.
Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS)
IDAS provides emotional and practical support to people experiencing domestic abuse, including financial abuse.
You do not need to report abuse to the police to access support.
Telephone: 03000 110 110
Age UK York provides information, advice and support for older people, their families and carers.
Information and Advice: 01904 634061 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am–3pm)
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. For non-emergency police matters, call 101.
Helping to make financial abuse visible
Financial abuse doesn’t always come from strangers. Sometimes it happens within relationships and families, making it particularly difficult to recognise or speak about.
By raising awareness and encouraging conversations, the campaign hopes to help more people understand the signs, feel confident seeking support and know where to turn if they’re concerned about someone else.
If you’re worried about yourself or someone you know, don’t ignore it. Financial abuse is a form of domestic abuse, and help is available.