Learning disability sex campaign launched in Britain

A campaign has been launched in Britain to highlight the rights of people with learning disabilities to have sex and relationships.

The campaign by the Family Planning Association (FPA) has been prompted by research which revealed that people with learning difficulties are often denied advice on pursuing relationships.

The FPA says people with learning difficulties must be equipped with the right skills to enjoy relationships without putting themselves at risk and they have produced an information pack on the issue to coincide with a series of posters along with a CD.

The FPA says living independently carries more meaning than qualifications and securing a job and expressing sexuality and enjoying a relationship is something everyone values.

The charity MENCAP says information and skills must be available to people with learning disabilities so they can enjoy intimate relationships without putting themselves at risk and those who don't have the capacity to consent to sexual activity, must be protected.

MENCAP says appropriate support must be in place, so that people with a learning disability can make informed decisions about sex as poor sex education and fears about exploitation can stand in the way for people with learning disabilities.

The campaign posters feature people with a learning disability who say they want to meet a partner, to become friends and companions in order to develop a relationship.

MENCAP says people with a learning disability should not be denied the right to develop personal relationships because of prejudice or lack of accessible information.

The campaign "It's My Right!" takes place during Sexual Health Week from 4-10 August 2008 and focuses on the rights of people with learning disabilities/difficulties to sex and relationships.

The FPA says 15 years of research and experience has indicated that while some people with learning disabilities will access what they need from mainstream sources, others need quite specific support from professionals and organisations and, as with all aspects of sexual health, information, self-expression, safety and opportunity are key factors.

The new CD "All about us" is aimed at people with learning disabilities and explores personal development and knowledge around sex, sexuality and relationships, for use as a self-study learning tool or with support from a parent, carer or professional.