Sex and relationships

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It’s natural for kids to want to know more about sex and relationships.

Younger children start asking about sex and the changes that happen during puberty.

Older teenagers will start dating and become sexually active.

Parents can feel unsure how to talk about sex and relationships.

Emotions, attraction and being who you want to be can feel very confusing for teenagers and parents.

Different terms describe sexual orientation and gender identity.

What is okay ?

What is not okay?

Find information and advice to support healthy, positive choices and connections.

Someone to talk to

KOOTH

Free safe and anonymous mental health support for young people

Young Minds

Emotional wellbeing and mental health support for young people

Childline

Childline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Call 0800 1111 or chat online with a counsellor in a safe space.

Sexual Health

Health for Teens 

Lots of information on relationships and sexual health

Brook 

Free confidential help and advice on sexual health and wellbeing, including contraception advice.

NHS Sexual Health Services

Find your nearest sexual health clinics, contraception and pregnancy services, sexually transmitted infection (STI) services.

Who you want to be

Sexuality

Childline advice on sexuality and sexual orientation. Everyone is different, and sometimes understanding your sexuality can be confusing.

Sexuality and Sexual Orientation

NSPCC advice on supporting young people with their questions about sexuality 

Birmingham LGBT

Supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans communities in Birmingham and beyond

Young Stonewall

Supporting and empower young LGBTQ people to live their lives free from discrimination and fulfill their potential.

Gender Identity

NSPCC advice on supporting young people with gender identity questions

Gender Dysphoria

NHS Advice. Gender dysphoria is a term that describes a sense of unease that a person may have because of a mismatch between their biological sex and their gender identity.

Gender Identity Development Service

Supporting young people's gender identity development.

Advice and support

#AskThe Awkward

Ask The Awkward helps parents to prepare for regular conversations with their teenager about online relationships and related topics.

Hate Crime and Anti Violence

Galop supports anyone experiencing hate crime, sexual violence, domestic abuse. 

Help after rape and sexual assault

NHS Advice. Sexual violence is a crime, no matter who commits it or where it happens. Don't be afraid to get help.

Talking about sex and relationships with your teen

Family Lives advice on having open conversations with your teenager.

Gender Identity Parents Guide

Young Minds Advice. If your child is struggling with their gender or thinks they are transgender, advice and information on what you can do and where you can get help.

Page last reviewed: 05/03/2024

Actions

Get in touch with us

Family Information Service

family_information@sandwell.gov.uk
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