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Supporters

These are items aimed specifically at families, friends, staff and other people who support folks with cognitive disabilities. Everyone is welcome to check them out, but they deal mostly with the role supporters can play in sexual health. How we show up for people can make things easier for them, or much harder.

In a 2017, a research team in the UK interviewed people with cognitive disabilities about their experience with romantic relationships, dating, marriage etc. Every single person interviewed who was in a romantic relationship of some sort could point to specific ways their support network had helped them find and / or maintain that relationship. Likewise, people interviewed who were frustrated at not finding a relationship often pointed to ways in which people in their support network had stood in their way.

As well, studies around the world show that people with cognitive disabilities are at increased risk of experiencing sexual abuse. Having a person or people in their lives with whom they can have frank conversations about sexual health topics is a key factor in reducing their risk of abuse.

While it may not be easy or comfortable to engage with folks we support around these topics, the benefits can be profound. And the good news is, we don’t have to be perfect at this – or even feel confident – to make a big difference. The videos and resources below show where we can find reliable info, and give some ideas on how to start those awkward conversations.

Videos

Intro for Supporters

New to Real Talk? Do you support someone with a cognitive disability? Watch this video first for tips on how to use our video catalog, and how to have better conversations about dating, love, relationships, and sex.

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What Can I do if my Doctor Doesn’t Listen to me?

The Advocate – Amy’s Story

The Advocate – Ahmed’s Story

The Advocate – Millie’s Story

The Advocate – Zora’s Story

How Should Family & Staff Support Your Love Life?

What do Open Conversations About Sex Look Like?

Did Your Family Talk to you About Sex?
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Resources

Support Info

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Guide for Talking About Pornography

Pornography is all over the place, but it’s rarely talked about. This guide gives pointers on starting the conversation.

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VCHA Guide to Supporting Sexual Health and Intimacy in Care Facilities

Vancouver Coastal Health Authority published a pocket guide detailing how to support the sexuality of folks living in care facilities.

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Talking to People With Learning Disabilities About Sex

For a while now people have been asking for a short pamphlet on this topic for families and staff.

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Sensual Solutions

Intimacy coaches who have experience providing services for people with disabilities.

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The PleasureABLE Guide

A PDF guide of adapted sex toys and sexual positions for bodies of all shapes, sizes, and abilities.

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The Advocate – Amy’s Story

In this issue, Amy advocates for her student.

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The Advocate – Zora’s Story

In this issue, Zora advocates for her daughter.

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The Advocate – Millie’s Story

In this issue, Millie advocates for her outreach client.

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The Advocate – Ahmed’s Story

In this issue, Ahmed advocates for his brother.

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News

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Skill-Building For Parents With Cognitive Disabilities

A groundbreaking program out of England supports parents with cognitive disabilities.

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What Real Talk Did From 2017 to 2022

What is Monkeypox?

Podcast on Dating With a Cognitive Disability

Touch Starvation is Bad For Your Health

The Ups & Downs of Dating With a Cognitive Disability

Sex Education Season 3 Is Must-See TV

Love on the Spectrum Season 2
Paulin Bosma

Pride Month LGBTQ Resource Roundup

UK Court Rules That Staff May Assist With Hiring Sex Workers

Animated TV Series Mixes Sex Education With Smart Comedy

NPR Investigation Into Sexual Abuse – Text and Audio Formats

Adapted Sexual Health Education in New York
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