How nurses can tackle taboos about sexual relationships with adults with learning disabilities

Supported by care staff, families and services, adults with a learning disability can have happy and safe sexual relationships, yet only 3% live as a couple

• Many people with a learning disability have the same aspirations for loving relationships as those without
• A safe and happy sexual relationship can improve quality of life, make people feel more valued and improve self-esteem
• But only 3% of adults with a learning disability live as a couple, compared with 70% of the general population

Intimate and sexual relationships are an important part of life for most people and that includes those with a learning disability.

Research indicates that many people with a