Young People's Sexual Health Report

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Summary of report content

Healthwatch Darlington wanted to understand young people's awareness of available sexual heath services and identify the barriers preventing access.  They undertook a survey to which 45 people responded.  

The survey revealed that over three in five respondents were aware of available sexual health services.  Over a third had used sexual health services, with the majority seeking STI testing (70%) and contraception (60%).  Key barriers to access included stigma, embarrassment, difficulty securing appointments, and a lack of information. 

When asked about service quality, nearly three in five expressed neutrality, while nearly one in five were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied. 

Online resources were the preferred method of obtaining sexual health information for 60% of young people.

 Additionally, gaps in education were identified, with 50% highlighting a lack of STI awareness, a third noting insufficient coverage of LGBTQ+ issues, and a sixth calling for better education on consent. 

To address these concerns, the report recommends increasing awareness through targeted campaigns, improving accessibility by expanding services, reducing stigma through education, and enhancing digital outreach and educational content.

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General details

Local Healthwatch
Healthwatch Darlington
Publication date
Key themes
Access to services
Caring, kindness, respect and dignity
Lifestyle and wellbeing; wider determinants of health
Prevention of diseases, including vaccination, screening and public hygiene
Written information, guidance and publicity

Methodology and approach

Was the work undertaken in partnership with another organisation?
No
Primary research method used
Survey
If an Enter and View methodology was applied, was the visit announced or unannounced?
N/A

Details of health and care services included in the report

Details of health and care services included in the report
Sexual health

Details of people who shared their views

Number of people who shared their views
45
Age group
13 to 15 years
16 to 17 years
18 to 24 years
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