Manfred
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.
Manfred has intellectual disability. He is currently in a correctional facility and hopes to be released soon.
Manfred grew up in a large family and had no access to support.
At school, teachers ignored him.
‘I think the teachers at my school did not help me with my learning and did not take the time to assist me when they knew I was having trouble.’
Manfred lost interest in education and left school as soon as he could.
He got a job, but says there was no appropriate training or support.
‘I think ultimately this lack of support through school and my workplace may have contributed to me turning to alcohol and drugs as I felt like I had no other way of getting through these difficult times,’ he said.
‘I genuinely feel that if I had received the necessary support in my younger years, my life may have turned out very differently and I might not have committed the criminal offences.’
Prison staff have treated Manfred fairly and with respect. He was able to access support for the first time in his life.
‘I appreciate that the prison has been supportive and accommodating of my disabilities and it has helped me to prepare for life when I am released.’
Manfred made a couple of applications to the NDIS, but was unsuccessful.
A new psychologist helped him try again, and he was successful. The NDIS will help Manfred when he is released.
‘Perhaps more support should be provided to ensure that people with disabilities in prison are able to more easily have their application to access the NDIS granted.’
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.