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Domestic Abuse: Older People

Asked by Jess AsatoLabourDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 18 September 2025UIN 76438

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether his Department has provided guidance for health and care staff on non-intimate partner coercive and controlling behaviour of older victims.

Answered by Karin Smyth

All National Health Service staff are required to complete mandatory safeguarding training which includes a focus on violence and abuse. The training reflects the definitions in the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 and accompanying statutory guidance which includes coercive and controlling behaviour.

NHS Safeguarding regularly shares awareness and learning for staff via national, regional, and local safeguarding networks through collaboration with peer advocacy and lived-experience services for victims. Learning materials include information on non-intimate partner coercive and controlling behaviour towards older victims.

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