Sex

Many workers have said it is increasingly difficult to engage young gay men in discussions about sexual health. This could be because they lack confidence when talking about sex. Different approaches to this could include talking about current health issues in the gay press. Discussing assertiveness with young lesbian gay and bisexual (LGB) people will enable them to talk about sex in ways they feel comfortable with. Peer education projects, where trained young LGB people educate others on health issues, is a way for LGB young people to play a key role in getting their health needs met.

HIV and Sexual Health

Young gay men are bombarded with complicated messages around sexual health and HIV, often during their first contact with youth projects. Information provided by youth workers should be appropriate for LGB young people. Sexual health information can be delivered in many formats and through innovative programmes that include videos, guest speakers, drama, art or storytelling. These elements can contribute to a diverse programme enabling discussion and debate.

In the past youth projects have usually focused solely on HIV transmission but findings from the 2003 national Gay Men’s Sex Survey show that 80% of young gay men do not know anyone who is HIV+. It is vital that any work around HIV takes into account how young men feel about HIV. Youth groups advertise themselves as being open, safe spaces for young gay men. Workers need to question how safe a project is for a young gay man who is living with HIV.

The sexual health needs of young lesbian and bisexual women are often ignored by both mainstream and LGB agencies due to a lack of funding specifically targetting this group. Young women should feel empowered by workers to develop projects that address their health needs. Youth participation is a hot topic at the moment and this may be the only way forward.

This article was last reviewed on: 27/10/11
Date due for next review: 27/10/13