Sex Education Toolkit for People with Learning Disabilities

A University of Brighton student and former social worker has created a groundbreaking, inclusive sex education toolkit designed to help people with learning disabilities understand relationships, consent and bodily autonomy.

While sex and relationships education (RSE) became compulsory for children with disabilities across the UK in 2020, many people with learning disabilities still lack access to tailored, accessible resources.

Standard materials like videos and illustrations often don’t meet the needs of those with moderate to severe learning disabilities, leaving critical gaps in their understanding of consent, bodily autonomy, and healthy relationships.

To address this gap, Sarah McBrearty - a final year 3D Design and Craft student at the University of Brighton and former social worker with over two decades of experience – has developed a tactile, easy-to-use toolkit specifically for people with learning disabilities.

By combining sensory learning with interactive resources, the toolkit breaks down complex topics into accessible and dignity-centred education, while supporting vital conversations about trust, consent, boundaries, intimacy, bodily autonomy, and safety.

At its core is a simple traffic light system – green for go, amber for caution, and red for stop – that helps users understand and clearly communicate that consent is fluid and ongoing. Using a gender-neutral body mat, participants place coloured lights to show consent, demonstrating how feelings and boundaries can change quickly.

3D anatomical models and tactile tools offer hands-on reference points for users who learn best through touch.

The toolkit also features texture stamps that simulate the sensations of sexually transmitted infections and illustrated cue cards that cover topics like healthy and unsafe relationships, controlling behaviours, contraception, abuse, and warning signs such as financial exploitation.

“Everyone deserves to understand their bodies, relationships, and rights in a way that feels safe and accessible,” said Sarah.

“This toolkit aims to empower people with learning disabilities to confidently express consent, set boundaries, and share their feelings- breaking down barriers that all too often exclude them from vital conversations.

“By making sex education tactile and inclusive, I hope to create space for respect and autonomy, helping everyone build healthier relationships.”

Sarah’s work will be featured at New Designers 2025 in London from July 2 to 5.