It is essential to recognise and acknowledge that people with learning disabilities also experience the same needs, feelings and desires associated with developed and active sexuality. A learning disability should not prevent any person from channeling their needs and feelings into means of expression that allows them to enjoy their sexuality and get pleasure and enjoyment from intimate relationships.

Through open acknowledgement of sexuality, and addressing the relevant issues rather than suppressing them, a learning disability need not deny an individual their complete sexual and personal development, or forming satisfying sexual relationships. Understanding our bodies and learning to say no to unwanted contact are essential for us all to be able to protect ourselves

Mencap BILD is the British Institute of Learning Disabilities; they help to develop the organisations that provide services and the people who give support. The BILD website has very good information and resources about friendships and relationships to support people to have a great life.

Easy read leaflets

Resources are available in ‘EasyRead’ formats for people with reading or learning difficulties, by clicking on the links below. These resources have been taken from the Easy Health website.

Contraception

• The Contraceptive Pill
• Emergency Contraception
• Contraceptive Injection
• The Contraceptive Implant
• IUD (copper coil)
• The Intrauterine System (IUS)
• How to put on a condom
• How to put on a condom - Yorkshire MESMAC and YorSexualHealth video
• Abortion

Sexual Health

• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
• Chlamydia (men)
• Chlamydia (women)
• Hepatitis Information Leaflet

Useful links

BILD - Site with easy resources, information on services and training.

Contact a family - Information and support to parents of all disabled children.

Easy Health - Easy to access information on your health.

NHS Lanarkshire - Easy read leaflets on sexual health