Sexuality & Physical Disabilities

“Talking sex” on a superficial or humorous level can be very much easier to do than discussing this very complex subject with maturity. The subject can be particularly problematic when it comes to the context of support services. Some trivialize the issue; others act in a highly oppressive and controlling manner. Some organisations take a very ‘liberal’ stand on the subject without thinking it through; thus potentially leading to accusations of abuse and/or neglect.

This course aims to help learners examine the subject in a professional way and thus understand what their responsibilities are in today’s climate and within the law.

Learning objectives:

By the end of the course learners should have understood:

• Definitions of Sexuality and Disability
• Sexual development, expectations and needs
• The range of sexual activity and expression
• The range of sexual orientation
• What is meant by sexual dysfunction
• What is meant by sexual perversion
• The legal aspect
• Those with Physical Disabilities; the same needs as others?
• Family attitudes and denial of sexuality
• Public attitudes
• Morality and religious attitudes
• What gets in the way of people with disabilities having a satisfying sexual life
• How staff attitudes can be unhelpful or indeed oppressive
• How staff can go too far
• Holding appropriate boundaries
• Safeguarding and the law
• Service users’ rights
• Self help
• Useful resources and agencies
• The organisation’s policy on Personal Relationships

Training methods:

• Tutor Presentations
• OHP/PowerPoint
• Video
• Word shower method
• Handouts
• Chalk & talk
• Group work
• Questionnaire
• Role play

CP231/5.9