Good sexual health means having the freedom to make your own choices about relationships and your body. It includes being in safe, respectful relationships, choosing whether or not to have sex, deciding if and when to have children in the future, and being able to access the health information and support you need.
Some young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) may face extra challenges in relationships and may be at greater risk of bullying, exploitation, abuse, or pressure from others. Education on relationships and sex can help by providing the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to build safe, healthy, and respectful relationships.
Schools have a statutory responsibility to teach Relationships Education (Primary) and Relationships and Sex Education (Secondary) which is inclusive for all pupils. For more information, please visit: GOV.UK - Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education and Health Education guidance
Looking after sexual health is an important part of overall health and wellbeing. Information, advice, and practical support, including contraception and STI testing, are available from a variety of services.
Your Sexual Health Matters
The Integrated Sexual Health Service is delivered by Derbyshire Community Health Service. They produce Your Sexual Health Matters which provides resources and practical support for a variety of sexual health needs, including STI testing, contraception, pregnancy advice, and sexual health education for residents of Derby and Derbyshire.
STI Testing
Free and confidential testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV, is available for young people aged 13 and over. STI testing can be accessed in a variety of ways, including visiting a sexual health clinic, attending a GP practice, or speaking to a public health nurse. Home testing kits can also be ordered online for people 16 years old and above.
Contraception
Information, advice and free access to a range of contraceptive methods are available to young people in Derby and Derbyshire. This includes condoms, oral contraceptive pills, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) such as implants and injections, and emergency contraception. Contraception can be accessed through local pharmacies, sexual health clinics, GP practices and public health nurses. Oral and emergency contraception is also available online for people 16 years old and above.
Support and Counselling
Confidential support and counselling services are available for a range of sexual health and wellbeing needs. Your Sexual Health Matters provides information on accessing psychosexual counselling, support following sexual abuse or assault, and specialist services for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Pregnancy Services
Information and support relating to pregnancy, including pregnancy planning and abortion services, is available by visiting Your Sexual Health Matters. Sexual health clinics can also provide advice and referrals to specialist support services where needed.
Free Condoms
Free condoms are available to anyone aged 13 and over living in Derby and Derbyshire. Condoms can be ordered online and delivered by post or collected from local C-Card/C-Scheme distribution points. Details of the nearest collection location, including a map of where individuals can access all types of free sexual support, please use the Your Sexual Health Matters - Service Finder.
NHS Guide to Sexual Health Services
View the NHS Guide to Sexual Health Services to learn about:
- Visiting a Sexual Health Clinic for the first time
- Contraception and STI Services
- Pregnancy
- Abortion Services
- Sexual Problems
- Sexual Assault Services