Sharon Morgan lends voice to Live Fear Free film challenging myths around domestic and sexual violence in later life
A POWERFUL new national campaign is shining a light on the often-hidden reality of sexual violence and domestic abuse experienced by older women, challenging the widespread myth that abuse stops in later life.
The campaign, created by Live Fear Free, features acclaimed Welsh actor Sharon Morgan, who has lent her voice to a short film titled ‘Abuse Can Happen At Any Age’.
The film is based entirely on real-life accounts from older victim-survivors, many of whom only disclosed experiences of sexual violence, coercive control and long-term domestic abuse later in life.
Evidence suggests older adults are significantly underrepresented in frontline support services, and are less likely to seek help.
Research from Dewis Choice, based at Aberystwyth University, included in-depth interviews with people aged 60 and over who had experienced abuse from partners or family members. The study concluded that older people face specific barriers to getting support and are often overlooked in both policy and service provision.
The film highlights how abuse can escalate over time, and how many older survivors may minimise or normalise harmful behaviour.
In one scene, a survivor describes making their first call to the helpline: “When I finally spoke, they didn’t push – they just listened. It was the first time someone had said, ‘this is not your fault’. I didn’t realise how much I needed to hear that.”
The campaign is also being supported by Welsh influencers including Vivienne Truran (@vivthecarer) and Elin Fflur (@elinfflurmusic).
In a campaign video promoting the Live Fear Free helpline, Vivienne said: “Sometimes people are carrying things they don’t know how to talk about, and they just need a safe space.”
She added: “You don’t have to fix things. You just have to listen. Being kind matters.”
Live Fear Free has also launched a community awareness toolkit alongside the film, designed to help people recognise the warning signs that an older adult may be experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.
Ann Williams, Live Fear Free Helpline Manager, said: “Sexual and domestic abuse can affect individuals at any age. Older victim-survivors often feel unseen, unheard, or unsure where to turn – but help is always available.”
She added: “It is never too late to seek support. If anything in this campaign feels familiar to you, or if you’re worried about someone close to you, please contact the Live Fear Free helpline any time of day or night.”
The Live Fear Free helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, free of charge, for anyone affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence.
For confidential support call 0808 80 10 800.
Live Fear Free was established in 2004, is funded by the Welsh Government, and is managed by Welsh Women’s Aid.
