Sex

Many workers have said that it is becoming increasingly difficult to engage young gay men in discussions around sexual health. A reason for this may be young gay men’s lack of confidence in talking about sex. Different approaches to this work could include talking about current health issues in the gay press. Discussing assertiveness with young LGB people will enable them to talk about sex in a way they feel comfortable. Setting up peer education projects and training young LGB people to train others on health issues is a way for LGB young people to play a key role in getting their health needs met

HIV/Sexual Health

Young gay men are often subjected to very complicated messages around sexual health practice and HIV and are often bombarded with this at their first contact with youth projects. All information provided by youth workers should be appropriate for LGB young people. Information regarding sexual health can be delivered in many formats and through innovative programmes that include – videos, guest speakers, using drama, art or storytelling. These elements are essential to ensure a diverse programme that will enable discussion and debate.

In the past youth projects have often 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 someone 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 HIV+.

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