The fourth part of the “Ring of Safety” to stop abuse is: to be someone who listens. Let the people you serve TALK TO YOU and TALK TO EACH OTHER. Because many have been abused and they are hurting this talking will help to promote healing. Many people with disabilities remain quiet for many years because they are afraid of being blamed. By blocking it out
and not speaking about the abuse they are slowing the healing process. When they are able to talk about their abuse, they are healing and realizing that the abuse was not their fault and that they did what they needed to do, at that time, to survive. Talking helps old wounds to heal, and even though there will be scars, when they are able to tell their story, it will make them stronger and it will
help end the cycle of abuse.
