Let’s Talk about Sex: Sexual Health Education Programme Manual for Groups and Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

‘Let’s Talk About Sex’ is a much-needed resource for providing information to groups and individuals with intellectual disabilities in order that they are aware of the risks and intricacies of sexual health, sexual relationships and all that goes with this. This need may arise during adolescence, following a period away from the community (e.g. hospitalisation, incarceration) or later in life. The manual provides a sexual health education programme that can be used with adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities. Its detailed guidance and resources can be used to run a group programme delivered as individual stand-alone sessions, in a pick and mix style, or as a 16-week programme, according to the needs of those attending. It can also be used as a basis for working with individuals on sexual health matters.

The programme covers topics including physiology, puberty, personal hygiene, health screening, sexual orientation and gender identity, dignity and respect, sexual education, consent, relationships, and exploitation, delivered in a non-judgemental, informative, supportive approach. Each session incorporates different methods of learning, including facilitator-led discussion, active participation and visual aids to enhance learning and can be adapted to meet the learning needs of participants. Online, printable resources are included to reinforce learning. Guidance is provided to facilitators on supporting individuals during and after sessions.