Social Care inspections do not include specific reference to relationships & sex, making it possible to receive an ‘outstanding’ rating, whilst ignoring an essential part of people’s lives. CQC said they cannot add mandatory questions for inspectors without amending the Health & Social Care Act.

The questions submitted to CQC have been added as supplementary but not mandatory, meaning inspectors can currently choose not to ask them. The questions covered sexuality & relationships polices, sexual health, sexual rights and training for staff and people who use services. Read more about them https://www.choicesupport.org.uk/blog/easy-complacency-or-hard-commitment

Social care staff are faced with difficult situations and are often untrained in this area, as it is not seen as a priority.

You can support this issue by adding you name to this petition.

Supported Loving have also shared some helpful relationship videos and resources:

Videos- Two clips from the U-Night Group to share with the network (must be opened in Chrome)

1.This is a video about the importance of relationships, featuring self advocates from across Lancashire https://drive.google.com/open?id=1dQFDi4uiccIpJHYsaTIWoQGSeAgKTCf7

2.This is a clip about the launch of our training pack ‘Listen Up-about staying safe in relationships’ https://drive.google.com/open?id=1BobPMZHjlPhYCge_5dg4r8GMwM63XVqZ

If anyone wants more details they can contact Sue via sueamberco@aol.com

New Publication– Older people in care homes: Sex, Sexuality and Intimate Relationships  – The Royal College of Nursing @