Why you should read this article:

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To familiarise yourself with the role of special interest groups (SIGs)

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To realise the potential of collaborative working

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To understand how SIGs can support safe sexual practices in people with a learning disability

Special interest groups (SIGs) create a shared space in which healthcare professionals can network and collaborate on topics of mutual interest. These groups support the development of multiprofessional expertise and knowledge sharing by providing a forum in which healthcare professionals can hold collaborative discussions on methods that will improve practice and care quality, and how to translate these into practice. Research shows that people with learning disabilities are more at risk of sexual abuse or exploitation, therefore they require support in areas such as relationship safety, emotional and sexual well-being, and sexual rights. This article describes how the North Staffordshire community learning disability team developed a SIG to support and promote safe sexual well-being for adults with learning disabilities and explains how the forum benefits staff, the organisation and service users.