Welcome to the Disability Division

At Voices Beyond Assault, our Disability Division is committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by survivors with disabilities. We recognize the barriers they encounter and provide specialized support to ensure that all survivors receive the care they need.

The Importance of This Division

Survivors with disabilities face disproportionate levels of violence, making this division essential
in addressing their unique needs. Individuals with physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental health
disabilities are particularly vulnerable to abuse, often experiencing higher rates of violence due
to the dependency relationships they have with caregivers and the isolation they may face.
Sexual assault and domestic violence not only threaten their safety but also undermine their
independence and well-being, making it more difficult for them to escape abusive situations.

Understanding the Intersection of Disability and Violence

High Rates of Violence : People with disabilities experience sexual assault and domestic violence at rates significantly higher than the general population. This disparity is especially stark among individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. For example, women with disabilities are almost twice as likely to be victims of sexual violence than those without disabilities, and individuals with cognitive impairments face even greater risk.

Caregiver Abuse: Many survivors with disabilities rely on caregivers for their basic needs, which can create power imbalances and leave them vulnerable to abuse. Caregivers may withhold essential support, use physical or emotional coercion, or exploit their position of authority to perpetrate violence. This dynamic makes it difficult for survivors to report abuse, especially when their abuser is also responsible for their day-to-day care.

Isolation and Accessibility Barriers: Survivors with disabilities often experience greater social isolation due to physical or environmental barriers, limiting their ability to access support networks. Additionally, traditional services for survivors may not be fully accessible. Many shelters, hotlines, and counseling services lack the resources to provide adequate support for individuals with mobility, hearing, vision, or communication challenges, further compounding their difficulties in seeking help.

Lack of Awareness and Advocacy: Despite the higher prevalence of violence among people with disabilities, their experiences are often overlooked by mainstream advocacy efforts. This lack of visibility results in fewer specialized services, limited public awareness, and inadequate legal protections for disabled survivors. Raising awareness and creating disability-sensitive advocacy are essential steps in ensuring that all survivors receive the attention and support they deserve.

Our Mission

Our mission is to ensure that survivors with disabilities receive accessible, affirming support. We
aim to eliminate the barriers they face and create a culture where all survivors are empowered
to seek help.

What We Offer

Accessible Support Services

Our services are designed with accessibility in
mind, offering assistive technologies, and
disability-sensitive counseling.

Caregiver Accountability

We advocate for the rights of survivors with disabilities, ensuring that abusive caregivers are held accountable.

Educational Outreach

We work with disability advocacy groups and
healthcare providers to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by disabled survivors

Join Us in Making a Difference

Donate

Your contributions enable us to expand our services and reach more survivors with disabilities who have been left marginalized and voiceless. Every donation helps create a more accessible and supportive environment where all survivors can thrive.

Volunteer

Join us in our mission to support survivors with disabilities and raise awareness about the unique challenges they face. Whether you have skills in counseling, advocacy, accessibility services, or community outreach, your involvement can make a profound difference.

Spread the Word

Help us amplify the voices of LGBTQ survivors by sharing our mission and resources with your networks.
Together, we can make a lasting difference.
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