Older people deserve to feel safe, respected and supported in every part of daily life. That message was brought directly into the community in Clonmel as the Health Service Executive (HSE) marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day with local pharmacy outreach designed to inform, reassure and connect people with help.
The initiative, led by the HSE Adult Safeguarding Team, involved partnerships with pharmacies across Carlow, Kilkenny, Waterford, Wexford and South Tipperary. In Clonmel, pharmacy customers were able to meet safeguarding staff, ask questions and learn what to do if they were concerned about an older person facing abuse, neglect, mistreatment or inadequate care. The community-based approach reflects how the Health Service Executive (HSE) increasingly works with trusted local settings to make public information more accessible.
How the Health Service Executive (HSE) brought safeguarding advice into the community
By choosing pharmacies as information points, the Health Service Executive (HSE) used a familiar and approachable setting where people already seek healthcare advice. That matters because elder abuse can often remain hidden, especially when victims feel isolated, dependent or unsure where to turn.
According to the HSE Adult Safeguarding Team, the aim was simple: ensure people know that support is available and that no older person should have to live with abuse in any form. Rob O’Connor, Principal Social Worker with the regional adult safeguarding service, said the pharmacy partnership helped the team reach people where they are and provide practical guidance face to face.
- Advice for older people who may be at risk
- Guidance for relatives, neighbours and carers
- Information on recognising signs of abuse or neglect
- Contact details for safeguarding support services
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Why elder abuse awareness matters beyond one awareness day
The Clonmel outreach highlights a wider public service issue that spans Health, Social Protection, Justice and community care. Abuse of older people can include physical, emotional, financial or psychological harm, as well as neglect. In some cases, warning signs may be subtle, making awareness campaigns especially important.
Public trust also plays a major role. People often first look to well-known official bodies such as gov.ie, the Health Service Executive (HSE), Citizens Information services or even An Garda Síochána if a situation appears urgent or criminal. While safeguarding responses are coordinated through health and social care channels, broader support systems may also involve local and national agencies depending on the circumstances.
This kind of joined-up awareness fits into a larger Irish public service ecosystem that includes organisations such as the Revenue Commissioners, Tusla, the Data Protection Commission (DPC), the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and the Department of the Taoiseach when public policy messaging is amplified across government channels.
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Common signs that may prompt concern
- Unexplained injuries or repeated accidents
- Sudden anxiety, withdrawal or fearfulness
- Signs of poor hygiene, malnutrition or missed care
- Financial confusion or unusual money withdrawals
- A carer or family member restricting access to the older person
Where people can seek help and reassurance
The key takeaway from the Clonmel event is that support is available and early contact can make a difference. The Health Service Executive (HSE) South East Safeguarding Team has encouraged anyone with concerns to get in touch through its Freephone service on 0818 101 101.
For many families, simply understanding the next step is the biggest barrier. Outreach like this helps turn awareness into action by offering clear pathways to advice, referral and intervention. It also reinforces that safeguarding is not only a medical issue but a community responsibility.
Read more: How public awareness campaigns help people access essential services
Conclusion
The Clonmel pharmacy outreach is a practical example of how the Health Service Executive (HSE) can bring essential safeguarding information directly to the public. As awareness of elder abuse grows, accessible local engagement will remain vital in helping older people live safely, with dignity and without fear. If there is any concern about abuse, neglect or mistreatment, contacting the Health Service Executive (HSE) safeguarding service could be the first and most important step.
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