RALEIGH, N.C., May 22, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Known for its ongoing efforts to combat senior financial exploitation, State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) is seizing another opportunity to support an annual North Carolina initiative known as Vulnerable Adult and Elder Abuse Awareness Month, held now through June 18th. The observance focuses on raising awareness of the issues and concerns of older and disabled adults who are affected by abuse, neglect and financial exploitation. Branches throughout the state have created informational exhibits to emphasize the importance of this local campaign, while also honoring a June 15th global initiative – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
For years, SECU has participated heavily in nationwide and state level conferences and meetings held on issues plaguing older adults and also assisted with legislation to address the issues. These Awareness events provide SECU a dedicated platform to place abuse prevention information in the hands of its members, along with ways for members to safeguard themselves from becoming possible targets.
“Ultimately, we all have a responsibility within our communities to be aware of potential red flags of abuse, neglect and exploitation,” says SECU Senior Vice President Debbie LaBarbera. “Vulnerable and aging North Carolinians of all social and economic backgrounds can be victimized, so it’s important that we educate members and provide our staff with the resources and tools needed to help protect our citizens.”
In North Carolina, the law requires anyone who suspects that a vulnerable or older adult is being abused, neglected or financially exploited to report this information to local law enforcement and/or Adult Protective Services in the county where the adult resides. Financial institutions located in North Carolina must also report suspected financial exploitation of older and disabled adults. In fiscal year 2016, nearly 25,980 reports of abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of vulnerable and older adults were made in the state.
About SECU
A not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members, SECU has been providing employees of the State of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for nearly 80 years. The Credit Union also offers a diversified line of financial advisory services including retirement and education planning, tax preparation, insurance, trust and estate planning services, and investments through its partners and affiliated entities. SECU serves 2.2 million members through 257 branch offices, nearly 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Member Services via phone and a website, www.ncsecu.org.