Access to sexual health services and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities: an Australian cross-sector survey
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Authors
Frawley, Patsie
Wilson, N.J.
David, Jennifer
O’Shea, Amie
Josefsson, K. Areskoug
Issue Date
2022-06-02
Type
Article
Language
en_US
Keywords
Intellectual and Developmental Disability , Sexual Health , Sexual Health Training , Sexual Health Policy , Disability Awareness
Alternative Title
Abstract
Introduction:
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) have the right to access sexual health services including information, education, and support. Little is known about the capacity of sexual health professionals to provide these services.
Methods:
Using an observational research design, this study utilised a descriptive survey tool (PASH–Ext) that also encompassed a standardised measure, with a cross-sectional purposive sample of 52 Australian sexual health professionals. Data was collected in 2020.
Results:
Just over half of the participants reported having received training in their preservice education to work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, of these 60% held the view that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities would not feel embarrassed receiving sexual health information and support.
Conclusion:
The study found that training is both important to the professionals’ preparedness to work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and that these professionals advocate for the continuation of this training in pre-service courses and additional training in post service education for sexual health workers.
Policy Implications:
To progressively realise Article 25 of the UNCRPD signatory, countries need to ensure sexual health services are accessible to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This study recommends that sexual health policy addresses equity of access for people with intellectual and developmental disability by ensuring all staff are prepared and supported to provide these services.
Description
Citation
Frawley, P., Wilson, N. J., David, J., O'Shea, A., & Areskoug Josefsson, K. (2022). Access to Sexual Health Services and Support for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: an Australian Cross-sector Survey. Sexuality research & social policy : journal of NSRC : SR & SP, 19(4), 1–9. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-022-00734-7
Publisher
Sexuality Research & Social Policy : Journal of NSRC : SR & SP