Colin
Content Warning: These stories are about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation and may include references to suicide or self-harming behaviours. They may contain graphic descriptions and strong language and may be distressing. Some narratives may be about First Nations people who have passed away. If you need support, please see Contact & support.
Colin is middle-aged and experiences anxiety and depression. He is angry about the government’s response to COVID-19 in relation to people with disability.
‘It's neglect and discrimination against the disabled that the Government has excluded the disabled from the temporary corona virus supplement of $550 a fortnight for 6 months,’ he told the Royal Commission.
‘The Government acknowledge there are additional costs due to the pandemic social distancing and lots of allied health services (especially community based services) being withdrawn or cancelled at the moment. Which means as a disabled man to stay safe and well during this pandemic I have to fund my health care out of pocket with private providers. I can't afford private health being on the DSP.’
Disclaimer: This is the story of a person who shared their personal experience with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability through a submission or private session. The names in this story are pseudonyms. The person who shared this experience was not a witness and their account is not evidence. They did not take an oath or affirmation before providing the story. Nothing in this story constitutes a finding of the Royal Commission. Any views expressed are those of the person who shared their experience, not of the Royal Commission.