Elder Abuse Intervention Team’s Presentation at the International Conference on Aging in Copenhagen, Denmark

Recommendation:
That Community Services Committee recommend to City Council:
That $15,990, be provided from Council’s Special Initiative Fund in 2006, for a presentation by the Elder Abuse Intervention Team at an International Conference May 30 to June 1, 2006, in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Report Summary

This report provides the background to the request for support of the Elder Abuse Intervention Team (EAIT) presentation at the International Conference on Aging in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Report

Background

  • On March 21, 2006, the City of Edmonton received a request to present information on its award-winning EAIT at the upcoming International Federation on Aging Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark.
  • The EAIT is made up of three partners: the Community Services Department, Catholic Social Services and Edmonton Police Service that have been in a successful collaboration since 1998.
  • This Team has been highly successful and has achieved international recognition for its work. EAIT received the Government of Alberta Minister of Municipal Affairs 2004 Award for Outstanding Achievement and in 2005 were recognized as one of the top ten finalists for the International Association Chiefs of Police/Motorola Webber Seavey Award for Quality Law Enforcement.
  • In support of the World Health Organization over the years, the EAIT participated in a global elder abuse research project which explored the international implications of family violence in aging world populations and various countries’ responses.
  • The City of Edmonton continues to be a leader in building community capacities in a variety of social initiatives which includes a strong community coordinated response to elder abuse.
  • The Team has had experience presenting at many workshops and conferences throughout Canada. This is the first international request.
  • There are no funds set aside in the 2006 budgets of any of the partners for this request.
  • Travel and accommodation costs for all three staff from the EAIT to attend would be approximately $15,990 based on flight availability: $5,330 per person consisting of $2,000 airfare, $2,000 accommodations, $425 meals, $845 registration, $60 miscellaneous (taxi, etc.).
  • At report preparation the current balance in the Council’s Special Initiative Fund is $95,000.

Justification of Recommendation

  • As part of the World Health Organization Round Table, the EAIT will provide information on the Edmonton co-ordinated team approach including both direct intervention strategies and community development initiatives
  • This request for EAIT to present at this conference will bring international positive attention to Edmonton’s excellent community-based partnerships. The EAIT will showcase the recognized Canadian best practice, intervention and prevention aimed at enhancing the quality of life and safety for older adults and their families.

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