Secret Loves, Hidden Lives? : Exploring Issues for People with Learning Difficulties Who are Gay, Lesbian or Bisexual

Policy makers and practitioners have frequently overlooked the importance of relationships for people with learning difficulties, and same sex relationships have been given even less consideration.

Secret loves, hidden lives? draws on first-hand accounts to explore the lives of gay, lesbian and bisexual people with learning difficulties.

The views and experiences of staff in a range of learning disability services are also featured in the study.

Based on a three year, qualitative research project carried out across the UK, the report describes people's experiences of 'coming out', relationships, discrimination and abuse.

It also looks at responses from staff and services, meeting other lesbian, gay and bisexual people, and dreams for the future.

Staff also reflect on these issues and discuss the importance of policy, training and creating services which promote cultures of equality.

The report highlights examples of good practice and contains practical recommendations for staff and services.

The report is aimed primarily at people who plan and deliver services for people with learning difficulties and the staff who work directly with them. Growing awareness of the relevance of Human Rights legislation for people with learning difficulties make this study particularly important and timely.

The findings will also be of interest to researchers and academics with a background in disability, sexuality and equality/diversity issues.