Young People Frequently Asked Questions
Gateshead Sexual Health strive to ensure that young people are consulted in their care and design of services. This aims to ensure mainstream health services support young people in attending also improving service user experience.
The team have surveyed & consulted with the student population around community perception of sexual health service’s, and what are the most commonly asked questions or myths amongst peers.
Feedback received from young people survey concluded the most commonly asked question amongst young people are:
1. Will they tell my parent or carer
2. Will I be judged negatively by professionals for visiting a sexual health clinic?
3. What age can I get contraception from the service?
4. What age do I stop getting access to contraceptives from the service?
5. Can I request a practitioner of a certain gender?
6. Will my information be shared with family/carers?
7. Will I have to pay for any treatment/medication?
8. Will my GP be informed about me visit?
In response to the questions developed by young people, the Gateshead Sexual Health team have provided feedback hoping this provides clarity on the questions raised.
Will they tell my parent or carer?
- No we will not tell your parents or the person who looks after you but if you are under 16 we will ask you who knows you’re coming to the clinic. We will also encourage you to be open with a parent or an adult you can trust. This is so we know that if you have a problem you have someone to help you.
- If you are under 16 we need to make sure that you understand the advice and information we are giving you and that you are able to “weigh it up” in your own mind.
Will I be judged negatively by professionals for visiting a sexual health clinic?
- Definitely not – professionals view it as a sign of maturity that you are doing something about your sexual health and not just leaving it to chance.
What age can I get contraception from the service?
- You can come and talk to us from any age. Every young person’s needs are assessed on an individual basis.
What age do I stop getting access to contraceptives from the service?
- Never!
Can I request a practitioner of a certain gender?
- You can but this may mean we have to give you an appointment to come back to the clinic when we can accommodate your request.
Will my information be shared with family/carers?
- No in most instances your information will not be shared. Everything you discuss in the clinic is ‘confidential’. But – if we are worried that you or someone close to you is at risk of serious harm we have a duty to keep you safe. Sometimes that means we need to have a chat with your parent or carer. We will always let you know if we need to share information you have given us, nothing will happen without your knowledge.
Will I have to pay for any treatment/medication?
- No this is free
Will my GP be informed about me visit?
- Usually no, but sometimes if we are worried about you we might need to share information with other health professionals to keep you safe. We will discuss this with you first.
We hope this provides clarity for young people accessing our services.
Please get in touch with us on 0191 524 3669 if there is further information you would like to see listed or advertised.
Best wishes
GSH