Safety and Security: Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
The goal of this initiative is to increase the capacity and knowledge of domestic violence and/or sexual assault service providers for the needs of victims who have intellectual and other developmental disabilities (I/DD). Also, it hopes to increase the skills and knowledge of I/DD service providers to effectively intervene when someone they provide services to is victimized. Staff at I/DD service provider agencies will also gain the capacity to promote primary prevention to avoid victimization in the first place.
Why is NCCDD funding this initiative?
- Individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities (I/DD) are eight to ten times more likely to experience abusive incidents than those without disabilities.
- Existing Sexual and Domestic Violence programs in North Carolina have limited expertise in serving individuals with I/DD.
- Direct support professionals and providers report little knowledge on how to identify and assist victims of violence or sexual abuse who have I/DD. As a result, victims with I/DD may not have support necessary to stop the violence and/or abuse.
- This initiative supports NCCDD's Goal 2 of the Five Year Plan: Increase community living for individuals with I/DD.
What are the major goals and objectives?
- To provide information to both direct support professionals of individuals with I/DD, and staff of domestic and sexual violence prevention programs to change attitudes and beliefs, and prevent domestic violence and sexual violence.
- Promote self advocacy among individuals with disabilities as well as educating professionals and their communities about primary prevention strategies in order to prevent acts of sexual and/or domestic violence.
What has taken place since the start of the program? (Activities)
- The Coastal Horizons Center, Inc. has conducted a needs assessment of direct support professionals and community domestic and sexual violence programs to determine opportunities, barriers, and educational needs.
- Completed four pilot training programs with direct support staff and staff from domestic and sexual violence community programs.
- Compiled resources and information on: mandatory reporting, ADA requirements and regulations, and information about healthy sexuality development for all ages.
What has been achieved to date?
- Developed a training program for providers specific to the needs of individuals with I/DD who have experienced domestic and sexual violence.
- Developed partnerships and strengthen collaboration with state agencies and statewide groups such as the Coalition Against Sexual Assault, and The Arc of NC.
- Raised awareness of the specific needs of individuals with I/DD who experience violence and how to intervene.
What long-term changes are expected as a result of this initiative?
- Strengthen collaboration and communication between direct support professionals and community domestic and sexual violence programs to ensure whole system response to the needs of people with I/DD who have experienced violence.
- Build a sustainable provider network that can support people with I/DD who have experienced sexual or domestic violence.
How can I get involved?
Donate time, funds or items from our wish list: Click here for more information.
Who is the contractor?
The Rape Crisis Center of Coastal Horizons Center, Inc.
Who can I contact for questions?
Grantee: Emily Turner, RCC Supervisor, [email protected], 910-392-7185
NCCDD: Melissa Swartz, Systems Change Manager, [email protected]
Additional Resources
I/DD Service Provider Training Video
DV/SA Service Provider Training Video
I/DD Service Provider Training Binder (pdf)