There is a wealth of evidence to show that looked after children and young people (LACYP) have increased health risks and problems (often due to abuse, poverty and neglect) (Jackson, 2007; Gatward, et al., 2003; Sergeant, 2006). Owing to these experiences, we see increased numbers of LACYP partaking in risky behaviours, engaging in early and unprotected sexual activity and are particularly vulnerable to sexual exploitation (Brodie & Pearce, 2012) (DofH, 2004). This has influenced the rationale behind proposing training care workers to be able to address sexual health issues. The proposal will be in the form of a poster aimed at; Local Authority Managers, Directors of Public Health and Health Service Commissioners for children who can make changes
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Research carried out on the experience of residential care staff found that the majority felt they needed support to be able to carry out a good level of SRE (Benzie, 2006). Many did not feel competent in raising issues of sexual health and relationships with LACYP (Benzie, 2006). It is possible that this is due to a lack of awareness as there is currently no agreed minimal education level for entry into the residential care sector in the UK (Brannen and Moss, 2003). High staff turnover rates averaging 20 per cent per year in Wales makes it difficult for care workers to have strong relationships with the LACYP in their care (Colton and Roberts, 2007). On the other hand, qualitative studies have shown that some care leavers have positive experiences and do not encounter issues with sexual health. Furthermore, there is a lack of research which can clarify the relative benefits of SRE in terms of enhancing the development of LACYP in …show more content…
‘45% of foster carers saw signs of anxiety or depression... only 12 per cent of teachers did’ (Minnis et al, 2001). This could imply that foster carers are hypersensitive to the needs of LACYP or it could mean teachers did not feel confident in making these diagnoses. Either way, the small sample size means the results cannot be generalised as being significant to the whole population but they paint a good picture of the feelings of carers in a particular area. Currently, the NHS family planning and sexual health services provide free SRE training for healthcare professionals. Training days such as ‘Making Sexual Health Matter’ with SHINE in Newham can easily be incorporated into the learning of care workers (SHINE, 2015). This would allow professionals to increase their knowledge and understanding of sexual health issues affecting young people and the services that are available which they can make referrals to such as Brook (Brook, 2015). LACYP have specific needs concerning SRE but are also faced with specific challenges such as; disrupted schooling (which means they
Research carried out on the experience of residential care staff found that the majority felt they needed support to be able to carry out a good level of SRE (Benzie, 2006). Many did not feel competent in raising issues of sexual health and relationships with LACYP (Benzie, 2006). It is possible that this is due to a lack of awareness as there is currently no agreed minimal education level for entry into the residential care sector in the UK (Brannen and Moss, 2003). High staff turnover rates averaging 20 per cent per year in Wales makes it difficult for care workers to have strong relationships with the LACYP in their care (Colton and Roberts, 2007). On the other hand, qualitative studies have shown that some care leavers have positive experiences and do not encounter issues with sexual health. Furthermore, there is a lack of research which can clarify the relative benefits of SRE in terms of enhancing the development of LACYP in …show more content…
‘45% of foster carers saw signs of anxiety or depression... only 12 per cent of teachers did’ (Minnis et al, 2001). This could imply that foster carers are hypersensitive to the needs of LACYP or it could mean teachers did not feel confident in making these diagnoses. Either way, the small sample size means the results cannot be generalised as being significant to the whole population but they paint a good picture of the feelings of carers in a particular area. Currently, the NHS family planning and sexual health services provide free SRE training for healthcare professionals. Training days such as ‘Making Sexual Health Matter’ with SHINE in Newham can easily be incorporated into the learning of care workers (SHINE, 2015). This would allow professionals to increase their knowledge and understanding of sexual health issues affecting young people and the services that are available which they can make referrals to such as Brook (Brook, 2015). LACYP have specific needs concerning SRE but are also faced with specific challenges such as; disrupted schooling (which means they