Introduction
Sarah McBrearty is a research-led designer with a background in learning disability social work. Her work focuses on creating accessible, dignity-centred tools that address social and political inequalities.
Her latest project—a sensory and interactive sex education toolkit for adults with learning disabilities—breaks down complex topics like consent, boundaries, and bodily autonomy into clear, empowering learning experiences.
Driven by a belief in equal access to information, Sarah’s goal is to support educators, care providers, and advocacy teams in having meaningful, inclusive conversations with people with learning disabilities about relationships and personal safety.
About Me
I’m Sarah McBrearty—a designer, former social worker, and long-time advocate for the rights of people with learning disabilities.
With over 26 years’ frontline experience—from social work to advocacy, day services, respite care, and behavioural support—I’ve seen firsthand how gaps in accessible education can leave people vulnerable and unheard, especially when it comes to topics like relationships, consent, and bodily autonomy.
In 2013, after relocating to Brighton, I began exploring art and design as a new way to approach these challenges. This eventually led me to study 3D Design and Craft at the University of Brighton, where I’ve been able to combine my professional background with research-led, creative problem-solving.
My practice focuses on designing tools that empower people with learning disabilities to understand themselves, their rights, and their relationships with others. I work with sensory learning methods, interactive resources, and an abuse-informed, dignity-centred approach to break down complex or sensitive topics into meaningful, accessible education.
My most recent project—a tactile, inclusive sex education toolkit—was created to address the ongoing lack of suitable RSE (Relationships and Sex Education) materials for adults with learning disabilities.
Driven by a strong belief in social justice, autonomy, and equal access to information, I’m committed to using design to create real-world impact.
Whether it’s through education tools, workshops, or collaborative partnerships with schools, colleges, and care teams, my goal is simple:
To help people with learning disabilities gain the knowledge, confidence, and language they need to navigate relationships safely and with dignity.
Press and media
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“A tactile, easy-to-use sex education toolkit empowering people with learning disabilities to understand relationships, consent and bodily autonomy".
Article Title: “New sex education toolkit for people with learning disabilities”
Publication: Learning Disability Today
Date: June 9, 2025
Extract: “A Brighton University student has created a tactile, easy-to-use sex education toolkit for people with learning disabilities to help them understand relationships, consent, and bodily autonomy.”
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"Sarah McBrearty’s toolkit is a groundbreaking approach to inclusive sex education, addressing a critical gap for adults with learning disabilities.”
Article Title: “Reimagining Accessible Sex Education For People With Learning Disabilities”
Publication: Crip Life
Date: 6 June 2025
Extract: “Sarah McBrearty’s toolkit is a groundbreaking approach to inclusive sex education...”
Link: https://criplife.co.uk/reimagining-accessible-sex-education-for-people-with-learning-disabilities/
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“Her sensory, hands-on toolkit makes vital topics like consent and healthy relationships accessible for all.”
Article Title: “Meet Sarah McBrearty – a final-year 3D Design and Craft student at the University of Brighton”
Publication: University of Brighton (Facebook)
Date: June 2025
Extract: “Her sensory, hands-on toolkit makes vital topics like consent and healthy relationships accessible for all.”
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"A groundbreaking, inclusive sex education toolkit designed to help people with learning disabilities understand relationships, consent, and bodily autonomy.”
Article Title: “Social worker turned university student aims to revolutionise sex education for people with learning disabilities”
Publication: Sussex Express
Date: June 5, 2025
Extract: “A groundbreaking, inclusive sex education toolkit designed to help people with learning disabilities understand relationships, consent, and bodily autonomy.”
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“A hands-on sex education toolkit specifically for people with learning disabilities, aiming to make vital topics like consent, autonomy, and relationships easier to understand.”
Article Title: “Brighton Student Develops Inclusive Toolkit for Accessible Sex Education”
Publication: Nursing Direct
Date: June 2025
Extract: “A hands-on sex education toolkit specifically for people with learning disabilities, aiming to make vital topics like consent, autonomy, and relationships easier to understand.”
