On 29 October the GIAff4ID project brought together 30 participants for their closing conference in Brussels, Belgium.

Hosting researchers, disability and gender specialists, self-advocates as well as support service providers, the event addressed how to increase access to comprehensive sexuality education for young persons with intellectual disabilities and break down stereotypes and barriers.

The discussions highlighted the urgent need to bridge the data gap in disability studies and engage directly with youth and families to better support people in understanding and expressing their affective and sexual needs. Key points included accessible education, safe spaces for discussions, personalised support, and empowerment. The importance of bodily autonomy, consent, and breaking isolation and stereotypes was also emphasised.

Speakers at the event also underscored the crucial role of workers and professionals in supporting the sexual and affective needs of people with intellectual disabilities.  It was emphasised that services must be well-equipped to create a supportive, inclusive, and trustworthy environment for individuals to discuss these topics.

The session concluded with a call for a universal yet targeted approach to comprehensive affective and sexuality education, ensuring inclusivity, a gender-sensitive approach, and respect for individual needs and cultural contexts.

To find out more about the EU Funded, GIAff4ID project, click here.