Are you worried about leaving an abusive relationship due to a disability?
Support exists and many of our local shelters are working towards become accessible.
Local Resources to Consider
Read more...- NL Domestic Abuse Hotline 1-888-709-7090 (24/7) – They can give you advice specific to your specific situation.
- RNC Intimate Partner Violence Unit: 709-729-8093 (Not monitored 24/7)
Eastern Health Community Supports (Adults with Disabilities)
If you are 18+ and have physical and/or intellectual disabilities, requiring long term assistance with daily living and/or supplies and equipment, contact Eastern Health Community Supports.
Website: Click
Phone: 709-752-4717
Empower NL: The Disability Resource Centre
Empower, the Disability Resource Centre, is a consumer-controlled organization committed to providing supports, resources, and opportunities for empowerment, which enable persons with disabilities to make informed choices about their lives.
Website: Click
Phone: 709-722-4031
NL Adult Protection Line
Are you seeking protection or want to report abuse/neglect in Newfoundland? Contact the NL Adult Protection Line and maintain confidentiality. The situation will be reviewed by a social worker and, if appropriate, a plan will be put in place to protect the adult.
If you think somebody is being abused or neglected, it is your legal obligation to report it. Failure to do so is an offence and can lead to a fine of up to $10,000 and/or one year imprisonment. If you suspect somebody is being abused or neglected, call toll-free 1-855-376-4957 or contact your local police.
Website: Click
Phone: 1-855-376-4957
Disabilities and Abuse
When I was first diagnosed with MS, I became very disabled very fast. I became completely dependent on my husband, which frustrated him. I allowed him to take his anger out on me because I felt so helpless and guilty. He would go into fits about how his life was ruined and became very depressed. He started taking medication, which made it better for a while, but then one day he went off the meds and told me that if he had to take a pill to live with me, then what was the point?
I would internalize all of his comments and think, ‘Look what I’ve done to him.’
I was lucky to have a social worker take notice of the situation. She helped me realize that this was not my fault, that my disability was not in my control and that if my husband couldn’t deal with it, that was on him, not me. She helped me find a better support base. You need to reach out to somebody — a friend, a family member or someone at the MS Society — just for that confirmation that it isn’t your fault. That’s the most important thing.
– Anonymous
This quote comes from a powerful article about coping from abusive relationships when you have a disability by Meaghan Kelly in MSBlog.
