Event highlights the abuse of women with learning difficulties

Peel Building

On 30 September, the University of Salford is holding an event to help women with learning disabilities who have been raped or otherwise abused.

The 'Women's Gathering' seminar will address the problems that these women face in not knowing where to turn, and also tackle the mixed standard of care provided by specialist centres.

There will be participation from a number of women's services including Trafford Rape Crisis, who are helping to run the event and, as well as input from Salford academics, the session will also hear from Kate Green, the MP for Stretford and Urmston.

Workshops will deal with issues such as forced marriage and participants will try to find out what services exist. The organisers hope to use the session as a springboard to develop guidelines which take the best practices from a number of services that can benefit all women's services.

Angela Olsen, a lecturer in social work, is running the session. "Women with learning disabilities find it particularly hard to access help when they've been raped or abused," she said. "Services often just aren't geared up for these women's needs, but there are areas where the level of support is outstanding.

"This session will draw out those good practices with help from the women themselves and is the beginning of raising standards nationally."

Women's Gathering takes place on 30 September at the University of Salford. Attendance is for women only.