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If you see something, say something.
If you think that someone has been abused or neglected, call your DDA Regional Office Right away!
Abuse, Neglect and Maltreatment will not be tolerated in any agency receiving funds from the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). Unfortunately, people with disabilities are abused, sometimes by the very people who are there to support them. It is your right to live, work, and have fun in a safe environment and to be treated with respect. It is against the law for someone to abuse or hurt you.
Abuse can be verbal, physical, sexual or emotional. Here are some examples of abuse:
- Someone yelling at you or calling you names.
- Taking your money or using your money on themselves.
- Someone making you do things you don’t want to do.
- Not allowing you to use the phone.
- Hitting, slapping, pushing, threatening.
- Touching you in private areas.
Neglect can include not having access to physical needs. Here are some examples of neglect:
- Not allowing you to have enough food
- Not allowing you to have clothing you need
- Not allowing you to access medical care or therapy that you need
- Not allowing you to have shelter that you need
In Maryland, abuse means the sustaining of any physical injury by a vulnerable adult as a result of cruel or inhumane treatment or as a result of a malicious act by any person. Neglect means the willful deprivation of a vulnerable adult of adequate food, clothing, essential medical treatment or habilitative therapy, shelter, or supervision.
If you believe you are being abused or neglected – tell someone – keep telling people until someone listens and helps you get out of that situation.
If you witness or suspect abuse or neglect of any individual receiving services, you are required to report it.
How do I report abuse or neglect?
- Follow Up - Immediately follow up to ensure the individual is safe and receives any additional supports needed.
- Report It - Immediately report the incident to your supervisor, to the Office of Health Care Quality at (410) 402-8094 or toll-free (877) 402-8220, and/or to your DDA Regional Office.
- If you are not hearing back from your supervisor, OCHQ, or your Regional Office, contact:
Anthony Jackson
Constituent Services Coordinator
Developmental Disabilities Administration
201 W. Preston Street Baltimore, MD, 21201
Office: 410-767-8687
Fax: 410-767-5850
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