Abuse Prevention and Cultivating Healthy Relationships

People with intellectual disabilities are sexually assaulted at a rate SEVEN TIMES HIGHER than people without disabilities. And that figure is likely a substantial underestimate, as it doesn't take into account repeated abuse or people living in institutions and group homes. 

There are steps we can take to prevent abuse and empower our loved ones to protect themselves and understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships. 

We spoke with Molly Dellinger-Wray who leads LEAP - Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention - at VCU's Partnership for People with Disabilities and LEAP trainer Rose Sutton.

 

The Odyssey: Parenting. Caregiving. Disability. 

The Center for Family Involvement at VCU School of Education's Partnership for People with Disabilities provides informational and emotional support to people with disabilities and their families. All of our services are free. We just want to help. We know how hard this can be because we're in it with you. 

 

SHOW NOTES: 

As Rose mentioned, caregivers need to take care of themselves, too!! 

To register for the upcoming LEAP webinar on March 18th, click here!

For more about Healthy Relationships and Abuse Prevention, check out LEAP’s website. LEAP is currently funded by the Individual and Family Support Program at Virginia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Human Services. 

Partners in Policymaking is a leadership development and advocacy education program for people with disabilities and family members. This free program is offered across the country and online in some areas. PIP started in Minnesota in the late 1980s. 

The NPR report on abuse can be found here. The latest statistics on abuse are here. 

The Adult Down Syndrome Center/Advocate Health Care webpage has many adaptive visual aids to help people with IDD with various things. Including: 

Bathing and Showering

Sexual Health and Relationships

Self Care and Hygiene

Social Skills