CRIME against older people is increasing as our population ages, according to a Cardiff charity.
Research conducted by Canton-based charity Diverse Cymru, will be revealed at a day of action event being held in the Norwegian Church on March 23.
The charity will conclude a six-month research project by delivering recommendations to a range of officials at the invitation-only event.
Elderly people from across Wales have taken part in focus groups and answered questionnaires.
Martyn Jones, Diverse Cymru chief executive, said: “It is a really complicated area when looking at crimes against older people and the Welsh Government has asked us to come up with recommendations.
“Our research is focusing on Wales and has looked into certain types of crimes that target older people such as distraction burglaries and rogue trading.
“We have found people who tell us people knock on their doors, ingratiate themselves and then abuse their trust. Unfortunately it is often family members.
“We are questioning whether this should be classed as a hate crime as they are targeting older people on their personal characteristics which is the home office definition of hate crime.
“This research will give the Welsh Government the starting momentum they need.”
Hate crime officers, police crime commissioners and representatives from pension organisations are expected to attend the event.
In addition to the surveys and questionnaires, Diverse Cymru has conducted a review of prior research into crime against older people.
“Through the event we hope to establish a network which can spread the findings of our project,” he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Diverse Cymru to diversify our work especially as we have done similar things in this area before.”
The charity will send their report to centres across Wales and make it available online in a bid to raise awareness.
