ANNOTATION - SEXUALITY, DISABILITY AND ABUSE - ADVICE FOR LIFE ... NOT JUST FOR KIDS

This annotation addresses the debate about the availability, taboos, choices and risks concerning the sexuality and abuse of young disabled people. It highlights the vulnerability of some disabled young people and discusses the dilemmas of maintaining the disabled person's dignity, safeguarding his/her independence and recognizing the need for appropriate sex education while providing protection from abuse. It is suggested that statutory agencies as well as legislation should assume greater responsibility for protecting and safeguarding the interests of disabled youngsters, some of whom may risk physical, emotional and sexual abuse beyond childhood. The manner in which sexuality and abuse are dealt with often reflects the way disabled people are regarded by the society. This paper attempts to address some of the legal and conceptual issues surrounding this area.