Disability resource: Friendships and Dating DVD

Publish Date: 14 Jul 2010

People with disabilities have the right to:
• experience satisfying and safe relationships
• be treated with kindness and respect
• feel safe wherever they are
• explore and express their sexuality
• have control over decisions which affect their sexual health, with support where required

This DVD has been developed as a guide to help parents and carers start talking to their child about relationships, sexual health and personal safety. The DVD can be used with the Friendships and dating booklet produced by SHine SA.

Many parents of children with a disability worry about their child’s ability to experience relationships safely without exploitation. However, these young people will experience the same hormonal changes as other teenagers. It is helpful to encourage your child’s developing sexuality so that it is explored in a safe and supportive environment.

As a parent or carer, how you relate to your child’s sexuality and how you respond to their sexual behaviours will have a strong influence on their sexual health and development. You can help your child establish healthy relationships by providing them with information that they understand, supporting them to make their own decisions and talking to them about their feelings.

The DVD provides information on the following topics:
Friendships and dating
• Meeting and making friends
• Relationships and dating
Education and information
• Safer sex and rules in relationships
• Contraception

To purchase the DVD please complete the SHine SA training resources order form.