Last week, we talked about staying safe by learning about sexuality. This week, we’re talking about sexual assault reporting. Reporting can feel scary and confusing. People may worry about what will happen next. They may wonder if others will believe them. Some people are ready to report right away. Others need more time. That’s okay. It is always the survivor’s choice to report, and when.
Many Self-Advocates Don’t Report
Most people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) do not report a sexual assault. This happens for many reasons:
- Some people don’t know who to tell or how to report.
- Some are afraid of being blamed or judged.
- They may fear losing their home, services, or support.
- Many don’t trust the police or others.
- In some places, staff or leaders hide abuse. They may tell people not to speak up.
These are real fears. That’s why we must listen and support survivors.
Empowering Self-Advocate Survivors
One way to help survivors is to give them control over their own story. They should decide if, when, and how to share what happened. No one should force them to talk.
James Meadours is a survivor and self-advocate. Here, he talks about when he knew he was ready to tell his story—and how he found his voice.
Watch the full video on our Seen and Heard: IDD Community YouTube channel. When we give survivors space and support, they can speak out in their own time and way.
Self-Advocate Centered Reporting
There are many things we can do to make reporting safer and easier for people with IDD. People who support self-advocates can:
- Listen without judgment
- Believe survivors
- Let the self-advocate lead the way
First responders (like police and hospital staff) can do better, too. They can:
- Ask and listen instead of assuming and judging
- Use an open mind, a slow pace, and kind words
- Know that people with IDD may need extra help to feel safe
- Follow person-centered steps that put the survivor first
Group care staff must step up. Studies show that up to 85% of sexual assaults in group homes are not reported. Care staff can:
- Make sure everyone learns about sexuality, relationships, and safety
- Train staff to watch for signs of assault and abuse
- Have a strong plan for when an assault is reported—and use it
- Put the comfort and the safety of the person reporting first
Learn More, Do Better
We all need to work toward better sexual assault reporting. That means learning what to do to support self-advocates every step of the way.
- Read our Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Gap Analysis Framework. Learn what makes reporting easier for people with IDD.
- Watch the Reporting playlist on Seen and Heard: IDD Community to hear more about James’ experience.
Everyone deserves safety, respect, and the right to be heard. Let’s support survivors with care and action.