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Violence, Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation and Discrimination: Safeguarding Participants in Disability Support
A Critical Training Area for All Support Workers
Every person has the right to live free from harm, fear, and discrimination. In disability support, safeguarding is not optional — it is a core duty of care under both the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Framework and broader human rights principles.
Understanding violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination (VANED) is essential for preventing harm, recognising risks, and responding appropriately when concerns arise. With the right training, support workers can help create environments where participants feel safe, respected, and empowered.
What Is VANED?
VANED covers a broad spectrum of harms that participants may experience in home, community, or care settings:
Violence
Any act of physical force aimed at causing injury or fear.
Abuse
Includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and psychological harm.
Neglect
Failure to provide necessary care, leading to physical or emotional harm.
Exploitation
Taking advantage of a participant for personal, financial, or other gain.
Discrimination
Unfair treatment based on disability, race, age, gender, culture, or other attributes.
Support workers must be able to identify early indicators, respond safely, and follow reporting procedures.
Why VANED Awareness Training Matters
Training helps workers:
Recognise red flags and risky environments
Respond appropriately to disclosures or evidence
Document and report incidents correctly
Support participants with empathy and professionalism
Understand legal and ethical responsibilities
Protect vulnerable individuals from ongoing harm
Effective safeguarding begins with education and confidence.
The Support Worker’s Role in Prevention
Workers must take proactive steps to maintain participant safety:
1. Build Trust
Participants are more likely to disclose concerns when they feel safe and respected.
2. Know the Warning Signs
Bruises, sudden behaviour changes, withdrawal, fearfulness, or financial inconsistencies can all signal concern.
3. Maintain Professional Boundaries
Boundaries prevent risk and protect both participants and staff.
4. Speak Up Early
Never ignore concerns. Report suspicions, even if unsure.
5. Support Participant Rights
Advocating for choice, dignity, and inclusion reduces vulnerability to abuse and neglect.
Linking to Other Compliance Skills
Safeguarding is connected to several other key competencies. Workers can further strengthen their practice with related 2Skill courses such as:
Zero Tolerance – Understanding Abuse
These online modules complement VANED training, ensuring a comprehensive approach to participant protection.
Moving Forward With Confidence
By improving your understanding of violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination, you help create safer, more respectful environments for the people you support. Through 2Skill’s online courses — and a 14-day free trial — you can develop the knowledge needed to protect participants and uphold their rights.
Support safety. Support dignity. Start learning with 2Skill today.
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