Sheree
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.
Sheree is blind and has physical disability.
She met Jay, an advocate, while living in a hostel.
Jay told the Royal Commission that Sheree was badly neglected.
She spent most of her time in bed, which was often soaked in urine. The mattress was so old and unsupported, it almost touched the floor.
No-one helped Sheree shower or bath regularly, and she would wear the same clothes several days in a row.
Sheree’s health was poor and her eyes were often infected.
Other residents abused Sheree and took advantage of her because they knew she wouldn’t fight back.
Initially, Sheree didn’t want to talk to Jay about the conditions in the hostel. She said she was frightened of the owner and knew he would punish her for talking to an advocate.
Jay successfully applied for funding for Sheree so she could leave the hostel.
Jay tried to convince the owner to facilitate Sheree’s move, but the owner was opposed and adamant she had to stay.
Jay believes Sheree was ‘easy money’.
The hostel owner banned Jay from the hostel.
Jay contacted the public guardian and they agree to investigate Sheree’s living conditions.
Several months later, the public guardian made an order for her to move to respite accommodation.
‘For the first time in [almost 20] years [Sheree] was out of the hostel, and she promptly stated that she did not want to return.’
Jay arranged alternative accommodation and support, ensuring appropriate safeguards were in place.
Jay believes hostel accommodation is unsuitable for people who have disability.
‘While efforts have been made to regulate the rooming accommodation industry, these have not got far enough to address the needs of people who require a level of support that hostel managers cannot provide, or are unwilling to provide. Further, exploitation of people who are vulnerable living in hostels is of major ongoing concern.’
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.