Sex
Sex is a very personal and private matter and many young people can get involved in sexual relationships before they are emotionally ready to accept the responsibilities and consequences that can result.
The law treats young males and females differently. If you are male, it is illegal to have sex with any girl under 16, even if the girl consents. If you are female, you are not committing an offence by having under-age sex but remember the law has been passed to protect you and therefore you should think very carefully about the consequences for you and your partner before having sex.
If you are a young girl and having sex, remember that the Social Work Department might decide to refer you to a children's hearing (panel) if they think you are at risk. See "Children's Hearing" for more information about your rights.
Sex between men is illegal unless you are both age 16 or over, but lesbian relationships are usually ignored by the law, unless one of the girls is very young and there are worries about her safety. If you have concerns about your sexuality and need to speak to someone, you can contact your doctor in confidence or you may feel able to speak to one of your parents.
If you are entering a sexual relationship, be aware that you have the right to go to a doctor for confidential advice about contraception and all sex related matters. Your parents do not need to know about this but it is probably better if it is possible for you to discuss your concerns about sex with one or both of your parents - see "Doctors".
There are also centres which deal with contraception, contact Caledonia Youth (formerly Brook Advisory Centre, Edinburgh) on 0131-229-3596, Family Planning Centre (Glasgow) 0141-211-8130 or the Family Planning Association 0141-576-5088.
