Disability groups state that sexual and physical abuse is rampant amongst disabled people living in care.
Kevin Stone, of the Disability Advocacy Group – Valid, said: “we know it’s happening…we think it’s the tip of the ice-burg…and it’s happening in far more services that we dare think…and not just in Victoria”.
Colleen Pearce, Victorian Public Advocate, said that: “crimes against people with disability largely remain unreported and a person with a disability often isn’t taken very seriously when they do report it”.
Peter Cross, United Voices for People with Disabilities, has indicated that when staff report abuse perpetrated by another staff member the organization often directs that such information not be made public. Mr Cross said that he will be campaigning for a Royal Commission into disability services.
If you have been the victim of sexual and physical abuse or other crime contact Victims of Crime Compensation Victoria for free, prompt and professional assistance on 1800 000 055 or complete our enquiry form at www.victimsofcrime.com.au
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