Zoe Moffatt
A report into disability and mental health support facilities was raised in parliament, after it found persistent abuse, neglect, and violence is being experienced by some of Victoria’s most vulnerable citizens.
Disability Minister Lizzie Blandthorn raised the community visitors annual report on February 20, and acknowledged there is more work to do to support residential services and disability services in Victoria.
The report, which was released in early February, provides insights into the impact of the ongoing lack of accessible and affordable housing, as well as service provider good practice.
In 2022-23, 384 appointed volunteer community visitors and their 117 trainees conducted 3793 visits at 1270 facilities
The report is based on their inquiries and observations throughout the year as documented in their visit reports.
This report found one north metro resident who uses a wheelchair was physically threatened, and highlights the ongoing challenges within Victoria’s support services.
The report told the story of Reign (not their real name), a young nonbinary person, who encountered significant barriers to basic needs and respect within their living environment.
“[Another resident] made physical threats to Reign, prevented them from freely accessing the bathroom, refused to allow the room temperature to be adjusted, and regularly referred to Reign as ‘it’,” the report said.
“There were also physical access issues such as a front door too heavy to open, and door handles that were too high.”
Reign was able to get intervention by community visitors, to receive crucial support and information about advocacy services, leading to improvements in their living conditions, such as the installation of a split system.
However, according to the report Reign still lives there and the situation remains far from resolved. They have to continue to navigate an environment that feels unsafe and unsuitable.
Victorian public advocate and chair of the Combined Board, Dr Colleen Pearce said community visitors play a crucial role in bringing these issues to light and facilitating positive changes.
“Reign’s story is not just a testament to their strength but also a clear call to action for us to continue advocating for the dignity and rights of all Victorians in support services,” she said.
“It’s clear that while progress has been made, much work remains to be done to ensure that all residents in Victoria’s mental health accommodation live in environments that respect their rights and dignity.”
