Financial Abuse
Everyone has the right to make independent financial decisions. If your partner, family member, carer or anybody else is controlling your financial affairs, then this could be financial abuse.
Financial abuse doesn't always happen in isolation; it can happen alongside other forms of domestic abuse.
If you're a victim of domestic abuse, or know someone who is, in an emergency always call 999.
If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use the Essex Police textphone service 18000 or text 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergencySMS service.
Other ways to report:
Adult Social Care
If you are being abused in relation to your care and support needs, contact Adult Social Care.
ESSEX
Telephone: 0345 603 7630
Online reporting: safeguarding portal
Textphone: 0345 758 5592
SOUTHEND
Telephone: 01702 215008 (Out of hours: 0345 606 1212)
Online reporting: https://www.livewellsouthend.com/care-support-adults
THURROCK
Telephone: 01375 511000 | email: Thurrock.First@thurrock.gov.uk
Support Organisations
If you’re not ready to talk to statutory organisations there are various charities that could help.
Action Fraud
National Fraud & Cyber Crime reporting and advice.
Reporting line: 0300 123 2040 (8am-8pm, Mon - Fri)
Online advice and reporting: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk
Money Advice Plus
The Financial Support Line (freephone) is for victims of domestic abuse. Helping people regain financial control and economic stability.
Call: 0808 196 8845 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri)
Surviving Economic Abuse
Advice for victims, survivors and those helping someone.
Website: https://survivingeconomicabuse.org
Hourglass
Support for older people at risk of, experiencing or recovering from any form of abuse or neglect.
Call: 0808 808 8141 (24/7)
Email: helpline@wearehourglass.org
Trussell Trust Food Banks
Find a food bank near you to get emergency food or advice on food vouchers.
Search online: Find a food bank | Trussell
Call: 01722 580180
National agency Money Helper has detailed out many more support networks available, and practical steps you can take if you suspect financial abuse.
Is it Financial Abuse?
Take a moment to watch this animation. It includes key questions to ask yourself that could help you recognise the signs
Tops Tips for Financial Safety
Safeguard against financial abuse with our top tips for financial safety.