In a new initiative, the center-right political party Venstre (meaning “Left” in Danish) suggests that funds should be allocated for sexual education for young and adults with disabilities living in group homes. The purpose is to prevent sexual abuse, as statistics show that this group is particularly vulnerable. According to a survey from the Danish Institute for Human Rights in 2022, the risk of being subjected to rape is seven times higher for residents in group homes compared to the general population. Venstre therefore proposes that in the upcoming negotiations for social services agreements (SSA), 8 million Danish kroner should be allocated to a sexual education program specifically aimed at group homes.
Anni Matthiesen, Venstre’s spokesperson for disabilities, emphasizes the importance of providing young people with necessary knowledge about sexual boundaries and consent. “It should not be more dangerous to live in a group home as a young girl than to live elsewhere,” says Matthiesen. She adds that there is a need to better equip young people so they understand what is legal and what is illegal. The proposal also includes the development of a counseling concept to help young people in group homes manage digital violations, including how to avoid sharing intimate photos without consent.
Majbrit Berlau, secretary-general of the organization Sex & Society, welcomes the proposal and points out that there has long been a need for a targeted effort in this area. “Just like the rest of society, vulnerable youth need to learn about their bodies, sexuality, and boundaries,” says Berlau, adding that it is important both to protect young people and to ensure that they do not cross others’ boundaries. Venstre’s proposal seems to have support from the other government parties, the Social Democrats and the Moderates, and efforts are being made to obtain a comment from the Minister of Social Affairs and Housing Pernille Rosenkrantz-Theil.