One of the most telling photos that shows abuse towards the disabled does happen is chillingly illustrated near the middle of the book. The photo depicts a young woman lying prone on the carpet, at the foot of her wheelchair. Alongside her is the command “IF YOU WANT IT - CRAWL FOR IT “
The booklet deals with specific forms of violence and points out that the abuser can be a spouse, partner, family member or someone you normally share a household with, like in a flat or institutional setting.
The booklet also gives sound advice on what to do and who to turn to in times of crisis. Find a person “who believes that abuse can occur and believes you,” and have a safety plan ready to be used when violence or abuse is happening, are two of the solutions found within the booklets pages.
A two paged lift out questionnaire occupies the middle pages and provides a check list of the various forms of abuse. The questionnaire recommends seeking help from a domestic violence service if you answered “yes” to any of its questions.
The booklet can be ordered free of charge from the It's
not OK website. www.areyouok.org.nz/.
Please contact your local CCS or Disability Information Centres
for further enquires.
Ross Flood |
