Workshops

Dewis Choice is a ground-breaking, research-led initiative based in Wales that offers a unique, co-produced service for older people experiencing domestic abuse, particularly adult family abuse. It integrates academic research with frontline practice, placing the voice and rights of older victim-survivors at the centre. Dewis Choice challenges assumptions about ageing, abuse, and justice, and advocates for inclusive, empowering approaches to support and safeguarding.

This interactive workshop draws on the learning from the Dewis Choice Initiative and is designed to support practitioners working with older victim-survivors of adult family abuse. It explores how to meaningfully facilitate choice and self-determination when discussing safety and justice pathways with older adults who may face complex personal, relational, and systemic barriers. Participants will critically examine how age, dependency, and intersecting vulnerabilities shape victim-survivors’ options and experiences, and develop skills to support informed, person-centred decision-making in practice.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the specific dynamics and impacts of adult family abuse in later life.
• Recognise the structural and relational factors influencing older adults’ ability to exercise choice.
• Explore frameworks for empowering older victim-survivors while ensuring safety and dignity.
• Develop practical strategies for discussing justice and safety options in a respectful, non-coercive manner.
• Reflect on professional roles, biases, and communication approaches when supporting older adults in these contexts.