New scheme to support survivors of domestic abuse with learning disabilities across Cambridgeshire
Research found women with learning disabilities, autism or both are three times more likely to experience domestic abuse
Last updated 10th Apr 2024
A first of its kind campaign is being launched across Cambridgeshire to find carers for people learning disabilities who have experienced domestic abuse.
It's after research found women with learning disabilities, autism or are three times more likely to experience domestic abuse than their non-disabled peers.
Cambridgeshire County Council are hoping to find carers who can support those with disabilities, while acknowledging their needs as domestic abuse survivors.
It has been set up as part of joint work between Cambridgeshire Shared Lives and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (DASV) Partnership.
The scheme is being funded by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough DASV Partnership.
White Ribbon Ambassador for Cambridgeshire County Council Cllr Neil Shailer said: “This is an exciting and much-needed initiative which will provide invaluable support for people with learning disabilities who have experienced some sort of domestic abuse – often an under-acknowledged characteristic which deserves greater recognition.
"As the first scheme of its kind in the country, I hope more will follow. Also that this will help raise the profile of people in similar situations who might currently be suffering in silence.”