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Relationships and sexual health
As you move toward becoming an adult it is likely you will continue to develop close relationships with others, some of which might become intimate and involve sexual contact.
From the age of 16 young people are considered old enough to give consent to engage in sexual activity with other people over the age of 16, if they want to. There are still some laws in place to protect young people where there might be an imbalance of power in the relationship and you can find out more about this and what makes a healthy relationship in the links below.
It is important to understand that consent is variable and can be withdrawn at any stage or time. People under the influence of drugs or alcohol are not considered able to consent to sexual activity, watch this video for an explanation.
Bodies come in all different shapes and sizes and there is a wide variation on what is normal. It is important for you to get to know your body and have an awareness of your sexual and reproductive health. Read more about your body.
Sometimes we can feel and think differently to the sex we were given at birth, you can find more information at the links below.
Sexuality describes your sexual preferences. Sexual orientation makes up a part of someone’s sexuality, however, it covers more than just who a person is attracted to. You can read more in the link below.
Having sex without contraception puts you at risk of pregnancy or catching a sexually transmitted infection. For more information about types of contraception and STI’s click the sexual health links at the bottom of this page.
Remember, sending or receiving sexual images of a young person under 18 (sexting) is a criminal offence.
What you can do to help
Who can help?
For more advice about relationships and sexual health speak to one of our team.
You can Call Us on 0300 029 50 50 or Text Us on 07520 649887 to start a conversation.
Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays).