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Healthwatch East Riding of Yorkshire decided to investigate what young people think of sex education after hearing that there were inconsistencies in their experience.  They spoke to 100 people.

The strengths

The local sexual health service has strong relationships with education settings. The consistency of pop-up clinics has built a connection and relationship of trust with students. The core message the sexual health service aims to deliver is being heard and understood by most students. 

A consistent presence by the recently appointed Public Health lead has helped improve relationships with the sexual health service which is resulting in issues being addressed quickly together. •

Students value both the presentation and pop-up clinic elements of the sexual health service's offer to young people. •Some education settings are preparing students, helping them to attend presentations in a way that they are ready to actively engage in the presentations. The sexual health service has made students aware that they can ask questions if they would like to know more or gain clarity on their understanding of the delivery.

Confidence from all involved in the project relating to having conversations about sexual health indicates stigma surrounding the topic is fading. 

Both Public Health and the sexual health service exude passion for sexual health education and wellbeing

Weaknesses

Barriers are being created by some education settings preventing students from accessing services offered by professional clinicians at the sexual health service's pop-up clinics which may pose a health risk for young people. Tone of delivery is felt to be harsh and promoting abstinence which indicates part of the core message is being lost. 

Students lack ‘brand awareness’ of the outreach team which may prevent young people from accessing appropriate clinic advice and support outside of their education setting. 

There was lack of confidentiality in the way that students can ask the sexual health service's questions during presentations. 

Education professionals and families feeling confident in having conversations with young people about sexual health but are not confident in their level of appropriate knowledge. 

Presentation slides are often described in a negative light by students with conversations indicating they are considered dated, too graphic, or unengaging. 

Students felt that there wasn't enough information and time dedicated to LGBTQ+ sexual health.

There was the strong possibility of  duplication when presenting in other counties which are actively served by different outreach organisations commissioned for that area. 

The sexual health service often face barriers in ensuring that ALL children receive sexual health education by a qualified clinician within their academic life.