Ways to protect adults, carers and older people experiencing domestic violence – the Polish example

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the legal and regulative framework for the protection of elderly people, including unpaid family carers who experience domestic abuse in Poland. Design/methodology/approach This paper draws from the broad literature including research and the legal and regulative frameworks (in Poland) used to protect victim/survivors of domestic violence, including unpaid family carers from abuse, violence and harm. Findings The findings suggest that although the legislative framework in place before 2020 offered victim/survivors some protection, which entailed the police removing perpetrators from the premises, the perpetrators often returned home where the abuse continued, and this has led to changes and amendments in law to ensure that victim/survivors are better protected. Originality/value This paper provides insights into how victim/survivors of domestic violence are supported through the legislative processes in Poland. It also provides insights into some of the specific factors that inhibit victim’s/survivors’ help-seeking behaviours.