People with disabilities are at a higher risk of abuse than their peers without disabilities and are less likely to be believed when disclosing abuse.
Offenders seek victims they perceive to be vulnerable and isolated from services and support.
You may be a mandated reporter. If you are unsure, please ask your supervisor.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY
COMMON ENTRY POINT
for mandated reports
of Vulnerable Adult Maltreatment -
Investigates Reports of Abuse/Neglect
of Vulnerable Adults (218) 726-2164
or
(800) 450-9777
Bridges to Safety
ABUSE can be: sexual, physical, verbal, emotional or financial
An ABUSER can be: a date, partner, family member, caregiver, friend, or stranger
Warning Signs of Abuse
These are possible identifiers,
not an all-inclusive list
• Sudden or significant change
in behavior
• Becoming more withdrawn
• Loss of previous skills or abilities
• Unusual expression of affection
• Difficulty sleeping
• Bruises or scratches
• Fear of being touched
Handling Disclosure
• Remain calm and be open
• Validate feelings
• Use the person's vocabulary
• Use caution and be aware of own personal beliefs
• Phrases to remember...
"I believe you"
"I'm sorry this happened to you"
"It's not your fault"
• Report if required by law, keeping victim involved in process
www.SafePlace.org
Disability Etiquette
• Talk directly to the survivor
• Respect personal space, which can include assistive devices
(ie: wheelchair, cane, communication device)
• Ask if help is wanted rather than making assumptions
• Remember to use the person's own language
• Avoid asking leading questions and rephrase if there is confusion
People First Language
When we refer to an individual, we refer to the person first and then the situation or disability if it is relevant.
| Don't Say: | Do Say: |
|---|---|
| Disabled, special needs, or handicapped |
Person with a disability |
| Brain Damaged | Person with a brain injury |
| Retarded | Person with a developmental disability |
| Wheelchair bound or confined to a wheelchair |
Person using a wheelchair |