The findings were published last month in a document by the Commissioner for Older People NI, with outgoing commissioner Eddie Lynch highlighting that while older individuals are less likely to experience domestic abuse compared to younger groups, the number of cases involving older victims has risen significantly.

PSNI data revealed 1,567 domestic abuse crimes against victims aged over 60 in 2022/23, up from 1,367 the previous year. Over the past decade, domestic abuse has come to represent a growing share of crimes committed against older people, increasing from six per cent in 2012/13 to 21 per cent in 2022/23.

The report also noted that older victims often face poorer outcomes in investigations and prosecutions, with many disengaging from the criminal justice process. Barriers to accessing support services and fears of isolation within family networks were also identified as significant challenges, particularly when mistreatment stems from adult family members.

Ms Sugden, who chairs the all-party group on ageing and older people, called on the Executive to take urgent action.

She said: “I am deeply concerned about the rising prevalence of domestic abuse against older people in NI. These figures represent real people, often enduring abuse in silence due to fear, dependency, or barriers to accessing support.”

Sugden criticised existing domestic abuse services for failing to address the specific needs of older victims, who may require tailored interventions and improved support systems. She urged the Executive to prioritise older people in its Programme for Government, adding: “It is unacceptable that, in 2025, older people in NI remain an afterthought when they should be at the forefront of safeguarding efforts.”

Reflecting on her tenure as minister of justice, Ms Sugden pointed to legislation introduced under her leadership aimed at tackling domestic abuse and holding perpetrators accountable. She urged the current Executive to take further action, including targeted funding for support services, improved data collection, and a public awareness campaign to address the issue.

“A failure to act sends a message that their safety and dignity are not a priority. I urge the Executive to step up and deliver the leadership and action this issue demands,” she concluded.