Sex and Relationships for People With Disabilities - Why Talking About It Matters

Written By Ark Support Coordination

Everyone deserves equal access to resources and education when it comes to sexuality and relationships. Yet people with intellectual and developmental disability may never receive inclusive, accurate information that is suited to them. These individuals can face unique challenges when it comes to relationships. As a family member, it can be difficult to know where to start or how to bring up these conversations. 

Talking about these topics with a professional can provide guidance and support, helping your loved one build confidence, make safer choices, and develop healthy relationships. Our Social Work Programs Coordinator, Maddy, shares some of the ways relationship and sexuality counselling can support a person with disability in Australia and some resources for families and carers.

Why talking about relationships and sexuality is important

Research shows that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at higher risk of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Understanding consent and safe relationships lowers the chances of abuse. But unfortunately, well-meaning family members or carers may shy away from these topics because they feel awkward or uncomfortable. 

Some of the factors that contribute to an increased risk include:

  • Limited access to sexuality education: Many people with disabilities never receive inclusive, accurate education about relationships, boundaries, consent, and sexual health. This can make it difficult to recognise unsafe situations or understand what is acceptable in relationships.

  • Challenges with communication: Difficulty expressing needs or saying “no” can leave someone more vulnerable.

  • Social isolation: Limited social opportunities can make it harder to develop healthy friendships and relationships, sometimes leading to reliance on unsafe or inappropriate social connections.

  • Misunderstandings about consent and personal boundaries: Without proper guidance, individuals may not understand what consent means or how to navigate complex social cues, putting them at greater risk in relationships.

What is Relationship and Sexuality Counselling? 

Relationship and sexuality counselling is a professional support service that helps people with disabilities understand personal relationships, sexual health, consent, and boundaries in a safe and supportive way.

Counselling sessions provide a safe space to learn about and explore topics like:

  • Knowing yourself and your boundaries with all of your personal and professional relationships

  • Building healthy relationships and consent: Guidance on how to communicate clearly and understand consent in relationships. This can include support to navigate and learn about all types of healthy relationships, whether they be with family, friends, colleagues, or with intimate partners.

  • Sexual health and wellbeing: Learning about bodies, safe sexual practices, and how to express sexuality safely.

  • Staying safe: Recognising unsafe situations and learning strategies to protect oneself.

By talking about these topics in a safe environment, it reduces the risk of abuse, increases the person’s confidence, and ensures their rights and inclusion.

How Families Can Provide Support

Family members also play an important role in supporting a loved one and ensuring their safety.  Here are some of they ways to offer support: 

  • Start open conversations: Use clear, simple language and answer questions honestly. Encourage curiosity while respecting comfort levels.

  • Provide age-appropriate education: Seek resources or programs that teach consent, boundaries, and safety in ways that are accessible and easy to understand. For example, using an easy to follow resource, such as the Sexuality, Relationships and Your Rights PDF.

  • Know when to seek professional guidance: Family member may not always feel comfortable or know how to properly address these topics. Working with professionals such as social workers or counsellors is also recommended. They will have experience in disability-inclusive sexuality education can provide tailored support and guidance.

  • Encourage safe independence: Support decision-making and problem-solving rather than making choices for your loved one.

Sexuality Counselling and Education Program

At Ark Support Coordination, we provide one-on-one sexuality counselling for individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability. Sessions are run by qualified Social Workers and can be tailored to individual needs, delivered in person or online, and may cover a broad range of topics from relationships to sexual wellbeing and safety. 

For more information, see our Discover Sexuality Counselling and Education page or get in contact today. 

Helpful Resources

Here are some helpful links to counselling services and resources in Australia to provide information around relationships and sexuality for people with a disability:

  • Ark Discovery Sexuality Counselling & Education program: One-on-one sexuality counselling for individulas with an intellectual or developmental disability. Sessions are run by qualified Social Workers and can be tailored to individual needs, delivered in person or online, and may cover a broad range of topics from relationships to sexual wellbeing and safety.

If you’re unsure where to start, we are here to help. To find out more, get in contact with our team today or call 08 6373 7500.

Ark Support Coordination
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