Elder abuse peer support partners: a family violence prevention strategy utilizing volunteers.

Abstract

The Elder Abuse Resource Centre, a program of the Winnipeg, Manitoba-based Age & Opportunity Inc., provides counselling, information/referral, community education and research and data collection services related to family violence issues that affect older adults (60+). Volunteers have been involved in every aspect of the Centre's operations since its inception in 1990 and are key to the Centre's existence. This article will describe the Elder Abuse Resource Centre's Peer Support Volunteer Program, beginning with the rationale for establishing this vital volunteer position. The primary role that training has played in maintaining a quality volunteer program will also be addressed.