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 currently 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 you should bear in mind that 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. You may also be referred to a children's hearing if the Social Work Department has reason to be concerned for your safety (see "Children's Hearings").
The Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act was passed in July 2009 and it will change the current law relating to sexual offences in a number of areas quite significantly, however, the Act is not expected to come into force until 2010. Until it does, the information above still stands however once it comes into force, it will become a criminal offence for young people - male or female - under 16 to engage in consensual sex.
If you have concerns about your sexuality or are entering a sexual relationship, you have the right to go to a doctor for confidential advice about contraception and all sex related matters, even if you are under 16 (see "Doctors"). 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.
There are also sexual health centres which give advice about and offer contraception, for example Caledonia Youth in Edinburgh (tel 0131 229 3596), or The Place in Glasgow (tel 0141 211 8130). For people outside Glasgow and Edinburgh, you can get advice and information by contacting the NHS helpline on 0800 22 44 88.
