Sex and disability – scandalous neglect

DAVE Thompson, chairman of Warrington Disability Partnership, will be the opening speaker at a major conference on sex and disability at the Royal Society of Medicine today.
The conference will highlight was is described as the “scandalous neglect” of the sexual and emotional wellbeing of men and women with disabilities.
It’s title is “Disability: Sex Relationships and Pleasure.”
Jayne Horton, chief officer of WDP, is also a member of the organising committee for the event.
The importance of the role of sex workers will be demonstrated by a home manager, lawyer, sex workers and disabled people.
Emerging best practices will be discussed, on engaging with disabled people about their sexual and relationship problems, writing policies and training.
WDP is currently working on two projects around relationships, sex and disability matters – a helpline and information file for local statutory, private and third sector organisations and individuals to access when help and information is needed, funded by NHS Warrington, and another project raising awareness in schools and colleges around relationships, sex and disability with young people, funded by Leonard Cheshire Disability’s In Touch.
Mr Thompson (pictured) said: “When I received the invitation to be involved in this national conference I felt great pride on behalf of WDP.
“It recognised our efforts in this area of work, which for too long has been hidden away due to embarrassment and lack of understanding. The conference will provide us with an opportunity to influence national decision makers from health, social care and third sectors.’