British public back confidential sex advice for under-16s

A new public survey seems to reinforce last year’s call from health workers for sexual health advice to remain confidential for under 16s.

An opinion poll of almost 1000 adults showed that 94% believed that young people who felt unable to talk to their parents about sex and relationships should be able to access confidential information elsewhere.

…young people’s sexual health charity Brook said that in some parts of the country, confidentially was already being ignored.

Some area child protection committees have developed guidance requiring those working with children and young people to breach confidentiality by telling social services about any under-age sexual activity, the charity says.

Brook’s survey found that 70% of people disagreed that making it possible for young people to get confidential sexual health advice and services led them to start having sex at an earlier age.

There was also support for more comprehensive sex education in schools

(Source: Public backs confidential sex advice for under-16s )