Young gay men need same level of sex and relationships education as their heterosexual peers.

In response to Sir Alasdair Macdonald’s Independent Review of the proposal to make PSHE statutory Deborah Jack, Chief Executive of NAT, comments:
 
“I am pleased the Government is continuing with its plan to make PSHE compulsory in schools. It is right that every child is equipped with the information they need to make responsible decisions about their relationships.
 
We are concerned, however, that young gay men may not be given the same level of sex and relationships education as their heterosexual peers. Education for them will vary from school to school; particularly given the discretion proposed for faith schools.
 
HIV diagnoses among young gay men (16-24) have more than doubled in recent years, from 128 in 1998 to 281 in 2007. With HIV diagnoses amongst young gay men at an all time high it is more important than ever same-sex relationships are taught in all schools in a respectful and supportive way.
 
Behaviour learnt at a young age stays with people, so it is important young gay men get the right information early on and are encouraged to practise safer sex.”

Notes to the editor:

For further information please contact:
Katherine Sladden
Communications Officer
NAT
020 7814 6733
press@nat.org.uk
 
NAT
NAT (National AIDS Trust) is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to transforming society’s response to HIV. We provide fresh thinking, expert advice and practical resources. We campaign for change.
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