Life Without Barriers is committed to supporting people with disability to pursue respectful, consensual and safe relationships.
Image: Four individuals engaging in conversation at a park.
At Life Without Barriers, we support people with disabilities in pursuing respectful, consensual, and safe relationships. We celebrate individuality! We want everyone to be comfortable in their own skin, and to feel free to express who they are. This includes pursuing relationships and exploring intimacy and sexuality.
Everyone has the fundamental right to form and maintain consensual, healthy and intimate relationships. To express their sexuality, access sexual and reproductive health information, and other services. These rights are essential for emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction.
People with disabilities often face discrimination and barriers that prevent them from fully enjoying important aspects of life. As a disability support service provider, Life Without Barriers understands the critical role we play in breaking down these barriers, and it’s vital that we do so correctly.
"Relationships are a fundamental part of life, and it’s crucial we address the systemic and social barriers that can prevent people from experiencing safe, respectful, and meaningful connections," said Jacqui Astolfi, Manager National Hubs and Projects, Centre for Practice Excellence.
"Everyone deserves the opportunity to explore these types of connections."
Relationships are important. Supporting people to connect with others is important. We support people to live their best, most fulfilled lives, in ways that they choose.
The Relationships, Intimacy and Sexuality Project
The Relationships, Intimacy and Sexuality (RIS) Project is about breaking down barriers, fostering a culture of respect, and empowering the people we support to make informed decisions about their lives. By equipping Life Without Barriers staff with the knowledge and tools to have open, supportive conversations, we are helping to ensure that everyone’s rights are upheld and respected.
Life Without Barriers have developed series of videos to support staff and the wider community to feel more confident in this space.
Start a Conversation
Our first video demonstrates how easy it can be to start a conversation, encouraging staff to use everyday moments to spark discussions, build trust, and better understand each individual's needs. It highlights that these conversations don’t need to be awkward or complex.
Privacy
The second video reminds us that the private lives of people with disability are exactly that, private. This is especially true when it comes to their personal relationships and their sex lives. You wouldn’t want someone telling your family your private business, right?
If you have questions about our Relationships, Intimacy and Sexuality Policy Guidelines, our team is here to help. Visit our Relationships, Intimacy and Sexual Relationships webpage to learn more, or send us an email at RISproject.support@lwb.org.au to:
Get information or resources on topics like relationships, boundaries, and personal rights.
Find out about training or support materials available for people with disabilities, their families, and support workers.
