Case Study
Samantha lives in a house with two other people. All three have severe learning difficulties and they are supported by a team of care staff and a manager. Samantha is really excited that she has a new boyfriend. She has very little experience of issues relating to sex and it is a subject you and your team have been very unsure about discussing with her, especially as her family feel that such relationships are out of the question for Samantha. You know very little about this new man in her life but have a duty of care to ensure her safety. There is also a dilemma between following the wishes of the family and acknowledging the right that Samantha has to enter into a relationship and even a sexual relationship with a man of her choice.
- How will you approach this issue with Samantha and her family?
It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.