Lifestyle :RelationshipsPersonal Relationships, Sex and SexualityGetting a boyfriend or girlfriend can be exciting but it can be challenging. It can be easy to forget your friends when you start seeing someone but remember you’ll still want your mates around if anything goes wrong in your relationship. Deciding whether to have sexIf you feel you are being pressurised into sex then think twice. Someone who really cared about you wouldn’t push you into having sex before you are ready, and only you know when that is. The legal age of consent in the UK is 16 apart from in Northern Ireland where it is 17. SexualityAs you become aware of your sexuality you may find that you are attracted to people of the opposite sex, the same sex or both. This is referred to as being Heterosexual, Homosexual or Bisexual (Gay, Straight or Bi). It may be difficult to let your family or friends know if your sexuality is different from theirs so think about using the helpline below. Remember it is important to have safe sex whoever you’re with.Safe SexIf you do decide to have sex it is important to have safe sex. A condom is the best protection against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. For help and support about contraception you need to visit a family planning clinic and for help and advice on sexually transmitted diseases you have to visit a GUM clinic. The people who work in these clinics are trained and the services they offer are free, confidential and non judgemental. Useful contactThe Gay and Lesbian Switchboard Local clinicsTo find your local clinics (and to find out how to get free condoms) follow the links below. Clinics in Luton This website contains useful information about safe sex, sexuality and pregnancy. This also contains information about the Condom Card Scheme and local clinics. Clinics in North, South or Mid Bedfordshire This website contains useful information about safe sex, sexuality, pregnancy and local clinics. National ContactsFor any questions you have about sex try Sexwise. You can speak to them in confidence. Sexwise Helpline: 0800 28 29 30 Sexwise website: www.ruthinking.co.uk |