Reports of abuse, neglect and assault in mental health, disability and supported housing services have more than doubled in the past three years, with 439 incidents of category 1 assaults in Victorian disability services last financial year.

The Department of Human Services recorded 112 cases of alleged ”staff-to-client” abuse in 2011-12 in government and community managed housing for the intellectually disabled across Melbourne.

Mary Wooldridge, Minister for Community Services, said work was under way to train staff to help identify, respond and prevent abuse.

Danielle Green, Opposition Disabilities Spokeswoman, said the system was struggling to cope with a 22% increase in complaints from people in the disability system.

For victims of crime support and advice call 1800 000 055 or go to www.victimsofcrime.com.au

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