Sexual Health and Disablity

Visual impairment

As with almost any disability, blindness or visual impairments do not have a direct effect on sexual development, or an individuals wish to pursue their chosen sexual existence. Where additional support may be necessary is in the accessing of information, education, and services.

It can sometimes be difficult for blind or visually impaired people to get hold of up to date and comprehensive information. However, it is possible to convert most written information into braille, or to have it recorded into audio format. The Royal National Institute for the Blind provides a transcription service that can carry out the translation of written material into braille or audio format. The service is free for individuals and also available to organisations. Check the Resources section of this website for further support.
For learning disabled people, society frequently takes the view that they have no rights at all to pursue social and sexual relationships, and are therefore often denied sex education completely. They may need more help to recognise appropriate sexual behaviour and distinguish between public and private behaviours. Also growing up in situations that differ from the norm (for example in an institution) can contribute to difficulties in appropriate social interaction.