THT calls for gay support for sex education

By Staff Writer, PinkNews.co.uk • December 12, 2006 - 0:00

The charity is calling on lesbians, gay men and bisexuals to join in an online petition

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HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust is asking LGBT communities to sign a petition on improving sex relationships education in schools.

The charity is calling on lesbians, gay men and bisexuals to join in an online petition urging the Prime Minister to make Personal, Social and Health Education (PHSE) compulsory in schools.

Currently schools only have to teach the biological aspects of sex and can exclude issues like the emotional aspects of sex, dealing with sexuality and understanding risky behaviour.

PHSE is also important in tackling homophobic bullying which not only helps to secure the safety and welfare of pupils but also promotes equality and diversity in schools.

Lisa Power, Head of Policy at Terrence Higgins Trust said: "We really want people to take five minutes to sign up to this petition online. For young people to understand issues like sexuality, the risks of sexually transmitted infections and the emotional aspects of relationships, they need to be covered in lessons, not just gossiped about in the playground. Just teaching the biology is nowhere near enough."

THT is hoping to get 10,000 signatures for the petition. People can sign up by visiting www.tht.org.uk/campaign

The petition is being supported by other charities including UNICEF UK, NSPCC and FPA who are part of the Sex Education Forum with THT.

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