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Sexual health is an important part of physical and mental health and wellbeing.  Essential elements of good sexual health are, equitable relationships, being happy with the choices you are making and not being forced into making them and having access to information and services to avoid the risk of unintended pregnancy, illness and disease.

Everything you need to know about sexual health services in York and North Yorkshire can be found on the YorSexualHealth Web site.

There is also advice and information about all aspects of sexual health, contraception and rights of young people when accessing sexual health services.

Age of consent

In the UK it is against the law for anyone to have sex with a person under the age of 16.  This is the same for men and women and for heterosexual (straight) and homosexual (gay/lesbian) sex.  This is known as the age of consent.

HIV

HIV remains a major public health issue both nationally and in Yorkshire and the Humber and the significant increase in the rates of HIV that we have seen in the region since 2001 is a tremendous concern.  Prevention of HIV is the most important way of controlling the epidemic so if you’re having sex, use a condom with any new or existing partners.  If you think you have put yourself at risk of having a sexually transmitted disease contact one of the GU clinics for more information. 

More information about HIV can be found on the Health Protection Agency website.

There are a number of organisations who work locally within North Yorkshire and York who can support you, your family and friends.  For more information contact:

• Yorkshire MESMAC provides HIV prevention and sexual health promotion with Gay, Bisexual and men who have sex with men. They also work with the wider Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGB&T) community.

• North Yorkshire Aids Action provides support for people in North Yorkshire who are living with or affected by HIV.

• Cambridge centre in Scarborough provides a broad range of services for drug and alcohol users, their friends and families. 

Please see the Sexual Health Factsheet for more information.