Hourglass specialist service launched in Greater Manchester

Press release - for immediate release 17th October 2025

 

Specialist support for older people experiencing domestic abuse in Greater Manchester launched

 

• A new specialist service has launched in Greater Manchester to support older people affected by domestic abuse.

• The service, delivered by charity Hourglass and funded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), will provide tailored, practical and emotional support for older victims.

• It will also raise awareness and improve understanding of abuse in later life among professionals and communities across the city region.

 

A new specialist service has launched in Greater Manchester to better support older people affected by domestic abuse.

 

The service, delivered by charity Hourglass and funded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), will provide dedicated, practical and emotional support to older victims, helping to improve safety, reduce risk, and raise awareness of abuse in later life.

 

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Abuse in older people is under reported nationally, with only 4% of older people accessing domestic abuse support despite 16% of victims being over 60.

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Hourglass is the only  UK-wide charity dedicated to ending the abuse, harm and exploitation of older people.

 

Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green, said:

 

“Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age. But we know that older people often face additional barriers to seeking help, whether that’s fear, isolation, or not recognising their experience as abuse.

 

“This new service sends a clear message that support is available at every stage of life. It’s about listening to older people, helping them feel safe, and ensuring they are treated with dignity, compassion and respect. I’m proud to be able to bring this help and support to our residents in Greater Manchester.”

 

This initiative follows Greater Manchester’s recent #IsThisOK? campaign, which focuses on recognising and challenging coercive and controlling behaviour. Together, these actions form part of the city region’s wider ambition to tackle all forms of abuse, protect victims, and hold perpetrators to account.

 

Chief Executive of Hourglass, Richard Robinson, said:

 

“We know abuse of older people is under reported with only 4% of older people accessing domestic abuse support despite 16% of victims being over 60. We’re proud to be working with GMCA to bring specialist support to Greater Manchester, where older victims can access the help they need quickly and safely.

 

“By shining a light on this issue during Domestic Abuse Awareness month, we hope to change attitudes, break the silence, and give older people the confidence to seek support.”

 

Building on its national work, Hourglass will now provide an additional, dedicated domestic abuse support worker for older people across Greater Manchester.

 

This specialist role will offer one-to-one support and advocacy to help victims feel safer and rebuild their independence. The service will also work with partners across health, social care and community settings to increase understanding of abuse in older people and ensure they are not overlooked.

 

Anyone affected by abuse can contact the Hourglass Helpline 24 hours a day on 0808 808 8141 or visit www.wearehourglass.org for advice and support.

 

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Notes to Editors:

 

• Hourglass is the only UK-wide charity dedicated to ending the abuse, harm and exploitation of older people.

• The Greater Manchester Hourglass service is funded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

• The 24/7 helpline provides confidential support to victims, families, professionals and whistle-blowers.

• October is Domestic Abuse Awareness Month

• Find out more about the #IsThisOK? campaign at isthisokgm.com.

 

ENDS