'Breaking down barriers around sexual health'

A community event in Surrey is being held to encourage those with learning disabilities to talk about sex and relationships.

'Shout about Sex' is an initiative which aims to break down barriers around sexual health by beginning an open conversation amongst those with learning disabilities and special educational needs (SEN).

The event takes place on Friday 22 November between 12:00 and 15:00 GMT at Woodhatch Place, Reigate.

Carla Withers, a community learning disability nurse in Surrey, told the BBC that people with learning disabilities "are sometimes overlooked when it comes to sex and relationships and it's really important that they get provided with appropriate education and support".

The event will include 12 stalls all showcasing different resources around aspects of sex and relationships, for example an accessible book on consent and the law.

Ms Withers said: "Sexual rights is a human right for everybody and people with learning disabilities are included in that.

"It's a nice open event, we have a place for people if it gets too overwhelming, everything is easily accessible," she added.

Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust is running the event in collaboration with Surrey County Council, Central North West London NHS Trust's Sexual Health Services, Sunnybank Trust, Proactive Community and Oliver McGowan.

Those over 16 are able to attend and encouraged to bring their family, friends and carers.

The NHS Trust said it was hoping to run more events in Surrey.

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