Commissioner warns: Legal system failing older people

There have been a number of truly horrifying cases of abuse and neglect in Wales where, despite extensive investigations and evidence of significant concern, there has been a total failure to bring criminal charges.

A key question needs to be asked of our justice system – just how bad does care, abuse or neglect have to be before it is considered criminal.

As it stands, the law simply does not offer sufficient protection for older people who are the victims of substandard care, abuse or neglect, nor does it provide a suitable deterrent to those who deliver substandard care or to those who abuse or neglect older people. This is something that needs to change urgently.