Family group conferencing : a restorative justice approach to elder abuse and neglect

Elder abuse and neglect is a hidden problem. The majority of abuse cases occur in domestic settings and are likely to be under-reported. A wide range of interventions have been developed to tackle the problem. Restorative justice approaches can be an alternative response to elder abuse and neglect particularly in the home setting. Restorative conferencing is one of family-oriented restorative justice interventions to empower older people, their family and the community. In the elder abuse field, family group conferencing can provide an opportunity for victims, offenders, families and community members to discuss the harm caused by the abuse and develop a plan for the wellbeing of the vulnerable victim. Family group conferences have been developed in New Zealand, based on Maori practices in the resolution of both child protection and juvenile justice matters. The approach of New Zealand youth justice family group conferencing holds potential for the development of elder abuse responses to ensure the safety, dignity and freedom of older people in a culturally responsive and appropriate way. In this paper, cultural influences in elder abuse intervention and prevention will be discussed.