If you are living with a Disability
Are you afraid or put down by someone close to you? Do you feel your disability is used against you by someone who should be caring? Many disabled people have similar problems.
Abuse can be from a family member or a support person. It can start as not listening or neglecting you, and can escalate into verbal, sexual or physical violence. Both men and women can be targets of violence, but the majority of victims are women.
A booklet called Domestic Violence and Disabled People is available which contains information about the risk of violence and what you can do to keep yourself safe. There are emergency numbers at the back of the booklet if you need help urgently.
This booklet is also useful for support people, including staff working in the wider family violence and disability fields. This is essential information that can help you be open to hearing about and responding to abuse. If you are well informed about domestic violence, you can give those being treated badly a sense of hope. Your help will be vital.
> Download Domestic Violence and Disabled People.
> Order Copies of Domestic Violence and Disabled People.
Thanks to the Ministry of Social Development for funding this booklet which was authored by Shine, DVD (Domestic Violence and Disability) Auckland, WAVES Trust, and the Mental Health Foundation.