THE SEXUAL ABUSE OF ADULTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES: REPORT OF A SECOND TWO‐YEAR INCIDENCE SURVEY

Abstract

Abstract This paper reports the results of the second part of the largest UK incidence survey to date of the sexual abuse of adults with learning disabilities. A mandate was sought from the relevant statutory agencies and a standard questionnaire filled in by service managers or practitioners for each case/incident reported which fitted the definitions and parameters of the survey. The results confirm the pattern of abuse which emerged from the earlier study, i.e. that both women and men are at risk, that perpetrators are predominantly men and usually known rather than strangers. One important difference was a significant increase in the proportion of cases, of abuse of men with learning disabilities reported. Despite the increase in awareness and sources of information about adult abuse, service agencies have not developed coordinated systems for reporting or recording instances of sexual abuse. Data collection continues to be patchy and ad hoc. The level of reporting has not changed but there is some evidence that people who had been victimised received more appropriate help. Devolution of services within a new mixed market of care requires that additional safeguards are put in place to protect vulnerable adults.

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