How to ask? When to ask? Shyness in talking about the issue and their experiences …not having the language to ask for consent during sex.
These are some of the issues identified by youth workers who took part in the rapid needs assessment conducted by the National Youth Health Programme on ‘Consent and the Youth Sector: What do we know?’
As COVID-19 restrictions ease and evolve, the NYCI National Youth Health Programme want to engage with youth workers to promote young peoples’ sexual health. This includes supporting young people to build and maintain healthy relationships and build their communication skills and confidence around their sexual health as we enter a new way of being and living. An important aspect of any relationship is the concept of consent. Evidence from the youth workers who participated in the rapid need’s assessment ‘Consent and the Youth Sector: What do we know?’ indicates that:
- Young people are confused as to what consent means
- Have no confidence to communicate their desires and dislikes in relation to sexual activity
- The main sources of information for young people on consent is peers, media and school.
Youth workers highlighted the need for a range of support material’s and tools to build the capacity and the confidence and competencies of the youth workers to support young people in this area.
As a result, the National Youth Health Programme are delighted to launch their report ‘Consent and the Youth Sector: What do we know?’ alongside two support guides:
- Youth Workers: Let’s Talk About Consent
- Young People: Let’s Talk About Consent
The two guides aim to support youth workers and young people start to understand and feel confident to engage in a conversation on the concept of consent. The two guides will provide information on:
- Consent and the Irish Law
- Tools to build the communication skills for young people
- Tools to build the confidence of young people in relation to their sexual health
- Guidance for youth workers to start a conversation with young people on the concept of consent
- Guidance for youth workers on how their organisation can support young people and their sexual health
- Additional supports and services for both the young people and youth workers
