Responding to the Sexual Abuse of Adults with Learning Disabilities

The sexual abuse of people with learning disabilities is increasingly being recognized as an issue in social services. Concern about enabling people with learning difficulties to express their sexuality and the development of a more respectful attitude towards sexual issues on the part of staff is now being matched by a willingness to explore the responsibility that services have in order to protect and support people who may, because of their vulnerability, be open to abuse. Based on a three year survey conducted by the authors, this book covers both conceptual and practical issues - its emphasis on organization and staff training is complemented by work done to establish sex education programmes for people with learning difficulties. It is the first specifically British study of the issues and includes an exploration of the legal framework in England and Scotland within which adults with learning difficulties might find protection and redress. The book also comments on relevant interagency responsibilities, channels of communication and procedures, providing a comprehensive overview of the issue of sexual abuse and older adults.