New Campaign & Toolkit: Look. Listen. Be Aware – Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse in Later Life

Posted on: November 25, 2025

We are pleased to share an important new resource designed to shine a light on domestic abuse affecting people in later life. On 29 October 2025, partners across Essex launched Look. Listen. Be aware – a countywide campaign focused on increasing understanding, improving identification, and strengthening support for people aged 70 and over who may be experiencing domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse in later life is often hidden. Older people may face unique barriers to seeking help, including dependency on a partner or carer, mobility or health challenges, or simply not recognising certain behaviours as abuse. This campaign aims to break down those barriers and ensure our communities know how to spot the signs and where to turn for help.

Campaign Goals

Raise Awareness

• Highlight the realities of domestic abuse among people aged 70+.

• Help the public and professionals recognise key warning signs.

• Promote the support available through COMPASS, Essex’s specialist domestic abuse helpline.

• Encourage anyone supporting older people to reach out for advice and guidance.

Educate & Equip

• Provide clear information for professionals—including caregivers, health and social care teams, and community organisations—on recognising abuse and accessing SETDAB resources.

• Support local authorities and community groups to confidently signpost older residents to help.

Who the Campaign Supports

The campaign is designed for:

• Community organisations and local authorities

• Domiciliary care and healthcare professionals

• Unpaid carers

• Family members and friends

• Individuals aged 70+ who may be affected

How You Can Help

Your support is vital in helping this message reach every community across Essex. You can get involved by:

• Sharing and engaging with Look. Listen. Be aware social media posts

• Using and circulating the partner toolkit across your networks

• Adapting the sample content and campaign assets for your own channels

• Championing the campaign within your local communities

• Encouraging wider stakeholder engagement and amplification

• Sharing SETDAB resources within your organisation to build awareness and staff confidence

Access the Toolkit

A comprehensive partner toolkit—along with digital and print campaign assets—is available to download from the campaign’s SharePoint folder. If you need access, please contact campaigns@essex.gov.uk

Author: Emily Smith
Posted: 25/11/2025
Categories: News