Sexual health activity for those with learning disabilities

A community event is being held in Surrey to encourage people with learning disabilities to talk about sex and relationships.

‘Scream About Sex’ is an initiative that aims to break down barriers around sexual health by starting an open conversation between those with learning disabilities and special educational needs (SEN).

The event will take place on Friday 22 November between 12pm and 3pm GMT at Woodhatch Place, Reigate.

Carla Withers, a community learning disability nurse in Surrey, told the BBC that people with learning disabilities are “sometimes overlooked when it comes to sex and relationships and it’s really important that they are provided with appropriate education and support”.

The event will feature 12 stalls, all showcasing different resources related to sex and relationships (for example, an accessible book on consent and the law).

Ms Withers said: “Sexual rights are a human right for everyone, and this includes people with learning disabilities.

“It’s a nice open event, we have space for people if it gets too overwhelming, everything is easily accessible,” he added.

NHS Surrey and Borders Partnership Trust are running the event in collaboration with Surrey County Council, Mid North West London NHS Trust’s Sexual Health Services, Sunnybank Trust, Proactive Community and Oliver McGowan.

People over the age of 16 are welcome to attend and are encouraged to bring their family, friends and carers.

The NHS Trust said it hoped to hold more events in Surrey.