COUNTY Hall workers will be getting out and about in Worcestershire this month to raise awareness of the abuse of older people.

The authority will mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Friday, June 15, by getting some staff to wear sashes and hand out "adult abuse is a crime - let's end it now" stickers.

The team will be undertaking the task around Worcestershire in less than a fortnight. Abuse is defined as the violation of human or civil rights by another person or people. It can take several forms - including physical, sexual, financial, neglect, discriminatory or psychological.

There were 81 reported cases of abuse of older people reported up between 2006 and 2007 in Worcestershire, with financial abuse one of the most common.

Coun Philip Gretton, cabinet member for adult and community services, said: "Getting out and about in the community to provide information and advice is what we need to do raise awareness of elder abuse. We will be promoting a freephone number and our website.

Anyone interested in finding out more about adult protection can contact the action line on 0808 8088 141.