fpa welcomes new UK Government guidance on providing sexual health advice and treatment to under 16s

Main Category: Sexual Health / STDs
Article Date: 30 Jul 2004 - 12:00 PDT

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Anne Weyman, fpa (Family Planning Association) Chief Executive said:

"We welcome this excellent, clear new guidance from the Department of Health, which takes the needs and concerns of young people under 16 seriously by reinforcing best practice amongst health professionals and makes plain their position when providing advice on contraception and sexual health."

"Young people worry a great deal about the confidentiality of health services, and it's one of the main reasons why they fail to seek professional advice. In the absence of other support, this leaves them vulnerable to unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections."

"All health professionals have a duty of confidentiality to their patients. It's vital services make this policy clear, so that young people feel confident enough to approach health professionals and receive the information and treatment they need."

-ends-

For further information please contact fpa's press office on (UK) 020 7923 5202/5201 or 07958 921060.

http://www.fpa.org.uk

fpa (Family Planning Association) is the only registered charity working to improve the sexual health and reproductive rights of all people throughout the UK

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