Domestic Violence and People with Disabilities
Intimate partner and domestic violence occur at a higher rate among people with disabilities placing them at greater risk for this type of victimization. For women this may include sexual, physical, and psychological abuse as well as control of reproductive or sexual health and stalking. For men, stalking and psychological aggression by an intimate partner are most common. Further, for victims with a disability, abuse can come from a range of people including an intimate partner, family member, caregiver, acquaintance or even a stranger.
Domestic violence can take on many forms for those with disabilities. The most common forms include:
- Verbal or psychological abuse
- Physical violence
- Unwanted sexual contact
- Threats and intimidation
- Neglect
- Withholding medications or necessary care
- Isolation
- Harming service animals
- Financial exploitation
Source: NCADV
Harmony House is inclusive of all people. We offer an ADA accessible facility, special training for staff who work with survivors with disabilities, and we provide referrals to local agencies that specialize in providing services and necessary medical or mobility supplies to survivors with a disability.
Harmony House welcomes service and emotional support animals into shelter and continued support from caregivers and health aides while staying in our emergency shelter. Harmony House partners with DeafLEAD for videophone/ASL interpretation. Because our services and support are individualized, we will make accommodations in any way that we can to support individuals who require shelter and who can meet their basic medical and hygiene needs.
Learn how to act as a bridge between survivors in our community and the programs here to support them.
