Financial and material abuse

Financial abuse is when someone takes advantage of another person's finances. It can include theft, fraud, internet scamming, or coercion related to the person's financial affairs. It can also include the misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions, or benefits (Care Act 2014).

Signs of financial and material abuse

Here are some of the signs to look out for if you suspect you or someone you know is being financially abused. 

  • Change in living conditions, which can include lack of heating, clothing or food
  • Inability to pay bills/unexplained shortage of money
  • Unexplained withdrawals from an account
  • Unexplained loss/misplacement of financial documents
  • The recent addition of authorised signers on a client’s or donor’s signature card
  • Sudden or unexpected changes in a Will or other financial documents
  • Unexpected changes/renovations to the adult’s home
  • Transferring financial liabilities into an adult’s name
  • Workmen visiting to complete unplanned and or seemingly unnecessary building/garden work
  • Sudden new friends/acquaintances taking trips together, making joint financial commitments or planning to move in

Other warning signs linked to domestic abuse

  • Refusing to contribute to household or other costs, including child maintenance payments
  • Transferring financial liabilities into a victim’s name
  • Not contributing to joint bills
  • Getting the victim to take out credit
  • The abuser using all joint resources
  • The abuser controlling access to the victim’s income, banking or savings
  • The abuser controlling or interfering with the adult’s benefits
Chat with us