Creating a healthy respect
D. Milne
Lothian NHS, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
Healthy Respect is the national health demonstration project established to
test out different interventions and approaches in relation to sexual health for
young people. The first phase of the project is complete, a second phase of the
project will commence in 2005. A large part of the work evolves around the
school setting.
Objectives: To deliver a multi-disciplinary programme of sexual health
and relationships education in 10 schools. To establish a drop-in/sexual health
services in schools, community and medical settings. To target key groups of
young people identified as ‘hard to reach’.
Methods: Teachers and school nurses have been trained to deliver SHARE
alongside youth and community workers. Needs assessments with young people have
identified service provision needs and wants, leading to a range of services
being established. Specific work has taken place in deprived areas, targeting
LGBT young people and young men specifically. Results: The link between
education and services is acceptable to young people resulting in young people
who are part of education sessions making the leap to using a local service
provision. The employment of an inreach/outreach nurse has been particularly
beneficial.
Conclusion: Providing linked, improved education, services and
information whilst targeting key groups is resulting in an increase in service
users.
