Staying safe

Discriminatory abuse

Discriminatory abuse may manifest itself as any of the other categories of abuse previously stated. What is distinctive, however, is that discriminatory abuse is motivated by oppressive and discriminatory attitudes. Examples of discriminatory abuse may include:

  • disability - physical or learning disability, mental, ill-health or sensory impairment
  • race
  • gender
  • age
  • religion
  • cultural background
  • sexual orientation
  • political convictions
  • appearance

The examples of discriminatory abuse may take the form of any of those listed under any of the other categories of abuse. The difference lies in that the abuse is motivated by discriminatory attitudes, feelings or behaviour towards an individual.

Indicators of discriminatory abuse

These may include:

  • a tendency for withdrawal and isolation
  • fearfulness and anxiety
  • being refused access to services or being excluded inappropriately
  • resistance or refusal to access services that are required to meet assessed needs

The indicators of discriminatory abuse above may take the form of any of those listed under any of the other categories of abuse. The difference lies in that the abuse is motivated by discriminatory attitudes, feelings or behaviour towards an individual.