Surrey’s NEVR launches a digital toolkit and social media campaign to fight hidden elder abuse and support vulnerable seniors.
New Toolkit Shines Light on Hidden Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is often invisible, but a Surrey-based organization is determined to change that. The Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) has unveiled a new digital toolkit and social media campaign designed to raise awareness, prevent abuse, and empower communities to take action.
“Elder abuse is more than physical harm,” reads one message from the campaign. “It often hides in plain sight.”
NEVR’s initiative seeks to provide communities, organizations, and service providers with practical tools to identify warning signs, respond safely, and connect older adults with the support they need.
Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse can take many forms. It might be physical, emotional, sexual, or financial. Neglect, too, counts as abuse. Unfortunately, these cases are often “significantly under-reported,” says Dr. Balbir Gurm, NEVR’s executive director.
Dr. Gurm explains that fear, isolation, dependency, and a lack of awareness keep many victims silent. “Older adults may hesitate to speak up, even when abuse happens in plain view,” she says.
This silence is exactly what NEVR hopes to break. By giving communities accessible information and practical guidance, the organization aims to make recognizing and addressing abuse easier for everyone.
What the Toolkit Offers
The downloadable toolkit, available at nevr.org, combines evidence-based messaging with user-friendly materials. It helps communities:
- Spot warning signs of abuse
- Start safe and supportive conversations with seniors
- Connect older adults with trusted resources and services
NEVR’s toolkit isn’t just for professionals. It’s designed for anyone who interacts with older adults—family members, neighbours, volunteers, and community leaders.
Dr. Gurm stresses that prevention starts with awareness. “Even small steps, like noticing unusual behaviour or unexplained financial changes, can make a big difference,” she says.
Social Media Campaign Aims to Spread Awareness
Alongside the toolkit, NEVR has launched a social media campaign encouraging organizations and individuals to share content widely. Participants can use a live link to add their logo to NEVR’s materials and post it on their platforms, amplifying the message across multiple communities.
To maintain consistent visibility, NEVR has developed a 12-month shared social media calendar. “This ensures the message reaches as many people as possible,” Dr. Gurm explains.
The campaign reflects a growing understanding that digital outreach is essential. Older adults and their families often rely on online platforms for information, making social media a powerful tool to prevent abuse before it escalates.
Community Events to Support Awareness
NEVR also hosts events to strengthen community engagement. Its 2026 conference will take place on April 9-10 at Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Surrey campus in Newton. Past events have been hosted at partner sites, including the One Billion Rising event on February 23 at LA Matheson School.
These gatherings provide professionals, volunteers, and community members with practical strategies, expert guidance, and opportunities to network. They reinforce the idea that preventing elder abuse requires collective effort.
Funding and Support
The toolkit was developed with support from a grant provided by the Council to Reduce Elder Abuse BC (CREA). NEVR emphasizes that collaboration and funding are key to sustaining long-term awareness and prevention efforts.
For those in need of immediate help, Seniors First BC operates the Seniors Abuse and Information Line (SAIL), reachable at 1-866-437-1940. The service offers confidential advice, support, and resources for older adults and those concerned about them.
Why This Matters
Elder abuse is not just a private issue; it’s a community concern. When left unchecked, abuse can cause severe emotional, physical, and financial harm. Yet, as Dr. Gurm notes, it remains hidden far too often.
By equipping communities with knowledge, NEVR hopes to change this narrative. The toolkit, social media campaign, and community events all work together to shine a light on a problem that has too long been ignored.
“Everyone has a role to play,” says Dr. Gurm. “Recognizing abuse, speaking up safely, and offering support can save lives and restore dignity.”
Taking Action
Anyone can make a difference. Whether it’s checking in on a neighbour, sharing NEVR’s social media content, or attending a community event, small actions collectively create a safer environment for older adults.
Surrey’s initiative serves as a model for other communities across Canada. It demonstrates that awareness, education, and collaboration can turn silence into action—and ultimately prevent harm to some of society’s most vulnerable members.
