There have been many positive developments around recognising the rights of people with a learning disability to be sexual beings.
The sexual health and relationships education needs of young people with learning disabilities have often been overlooked in the past. However, there is an increasing awareness that people with learning disabilities have similar sexual health needs to all other people, and should not be denied the opportunity to enjoy relationships in the same way as others do. There have been many positive developments around recognising the rights of people with a learning disability to be sexual beings.
Nonetheless, there is still work to be done in making sure that people are given opportunities to realise these rights, to take on the responsibility that goes with these rights, and to manage any risks that may be present.
Some of the main issues for this group of parents and young people are:
- friendships
- consent and making choice
- communicating in a meaningful way
- what to tell and when
- teaching people to be safe
- personal hygiene
- appropriate behaviour
- dealing with the issues around enabling independent living
Resources
For parents and carers it can be a challenge to find resources that help them discuss body changes, relationships, keeping safe and sexual health with their child who has a learning disability.
There are many resources that have been developed which deal with these issues and can support parents in understanding them and being able to help their children.
NHS Health Scotland has developed a comprehensive resource catalogue that lists all of these resources, entitled Sexual Health & Relationships – A Review of Resources for people with learning disabilities. Many of the resources listed in the Review will be available to borrow from libraries. Please visit the Health Scotland website for more information.
Healthy Respect has worked with specialist agencies and professionals to show ways of supporting parents and carers who have children with learning disabilities. We can provide advice on how to put together resources for parents and children to use at home. Contact Healthy Respect for details of our 'Together Boxes' toolkit.
Finding the right support, from other parents or from agencies can provide a great deal of help. See Support for parents and carers.
Talking Together
FAQs
Sexuality & Gender
Support and Information for Parents and Carers