• Mobility chairs/wheelchairs are part of an individual’s personal space.  Do not lean on, touch or otherwise maneuver someone’s chair without permission.
  • If you see that an accommodation may be appropriate, ask the survivor before you proceed.  “Would you like help holding the door open?”
  • Always ask permission.  Don’t touch or move the cane, prosthesis, mobility chair, braces, etc. of the survivor.
  • Allow the survivor to tell you their needs.  Do not bombard them with questions.
  • Seek to communicate with people at an even level physically, i.e. if someone is using a mobility chair, sit down or kneel when conversing for an extended period of time.

 

(obtained, in part, from CALCASA: Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault with Disabilities, 2010)