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
Resources
Mental health problems are normal, and during a crisis it can be good to reach out for support.
A concise handout for direct support professionals on the importance of affirming and supporting sexuality – including 2SLGBTQIA+ identites.
Sometimes a relationship needs to end. It may have become unhealthy, or it may just have run its course.
The Rainbow Support Group Guidebook has lots of stories of 2SLGBTQIA+ people with intellectual disabilities, and tips for their supporters.
Gender Marvelous is a space where families of queer, gender-diverse and/or Two-Spirit children and youth come together.
This is a PDF catalogue of adapted sex toys made by and for trans folks with disabilities.
SIECCAN has put together several simpler-language print based info sheets on sexual health for people with disabilities.
News
Need to update your legal name or gender marker? Renew an expired (or soon-to-expire) BC ID, driver’s licence, or BC Services Card? Qmunity and ICBC have you covered.
