Written Question · S3W-39124 · Session 3
What steps it has taken since 2007 to support (a) measures to improve access to independent sexual health information and advice services i…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive what steps it has taken since 2007 to support (a) measures to improve access to independent sexual health information and advice services in rural and urban areas and (b) the role of secondary school nurses in delivering a sexual health strategy and what the outcomes have been.
The answer
In line with our manifesto commitment, the Scottish Government has increased access to sexual health information and advice services across Scotland. Additional funding of £1 million over the years 2008-09 to 2009-10 was provided to help achieve this. As agreed with stakeholders, half of the additional funding for 2008-09 was allocated to NHS boards to assist them to increase access to accurate sexual health information, particularly in rural areas. This funding has been used to create or update local websites and service information, improve public access to sexual health websites and support the provision of information by voluntary organisations.
In 2009 the Scottish Government launched the Sexual Health Scotland website, which provides information, help and advice. This can be accessed at:
http://www.sexualhealthscotland.co.uk.
The Scottish Government also provides funding to a number of voluntary organisations throughout Scotland which provide independent sexual health and advice services.
In addition, the availability of local drop-in services for young people, offering general health advice, chlamydia testing, pregnancy testing and condoms has increased in line with our National Outcomes 2008-11. The majority of areas are working towards an integrated approach to providing accessible sexual health services for young people, either within school by the school nursing staff, or outwith school, with an emphasis on targeting vulnerable groups of young people. Most nurses working in schools deliver health education programmes on puberty followed by age appropriate information on positive sexual health, including contraception and STIs within secondary schools. Where chlamydia testing or pregnancy testing is included within the health service, the process of setting up clinics has been done in full consultation with teachers, parents, young people and the local authority.
With regard to improved health outcomes, it is too early to measure. However, research suggests that young people require access to information and advice in order for them to take responsible decisions on sexual health and relationships.
In 2009 the Scottish Government launched the Sexual Health Scotland website, which provides information, help and advice. This can be accessed at:
http://www.sexualhealthscotland.co.uk.
The Scottish Government also provides funding to a number of voluntary organisations throughout Scotland which provide independent sexual health and advice services.
In addition, the availability of local drop-in services for young people, offering general health advice, chlamydia testing, pregnancy testing and condoms has increased in line with our National Outcomes 2008-11. The majority of areas are working towards an integrated approach to providing accessible sexual health services for young people, either within school by the school nursing staff, or outwith school, with an emphasis on targeting vulnerable groups of young people. Most nurses working in schools deliver health education programmes on puberty followed by age appropriate information on positive sexual health, including contraception and STIs within secondary schools. Where chlamydia testing or pregnancy testing is included within the health service, the process of setting up clinics has been done in full consultation with teachers, parents, young people and the local authority.
With regard to improved health outcomes, it is too early to measure. However, research suggests that young people require access to information and advice in order for them to take responsible decisions on sexual health and relationships.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S3W-39124 by reference.