4.2. Outline where information and support can be obtained about: • contraception • sexually transmitted disease testing

This guide will help you answer 4.2. Outline where information and support can be obtained about: • contraception • sexually transmitted disease testing.

Supporting young people in accessing reliable information and safe services for contraception and sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing is an important part of promoting health and wellbeing. In early years and playwork, you may work with parents, carers, and young people who need clear advice on where to go for help.

It is important to know the range of services available locally and nationally. This helps you guide people to safe, confidential support rather than sources that may give incorrect or unsafe information.

Contraception

Contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy. It can also be used to manage certain health conditions. There are many different types, including condoms, pills, injections, implants, and intrauterine devices (IUD).

Where to Obtain Information and Support

People can access information and advice about contraception from a range of places. These include:

• General Practitioners (GPs) – Most GP surgeries offer advice on different contraceptive methods. They provide prescriptions and, in many cases, fittings for certain long-term options such as coils and implants. GPs also give guidance on possible side effects, how to use contraception correctly, and answer confidential questions.
• Family Planning Clinics – These clinics specialise in sexual health and contraception. Staff include trained nurses and doctors who are experts in contraceptive options. Appointments may not always require a referral, and many clinics have walk-in hours.
• Sexual Health Clinics (NHS) – Offering free and confidential services, sexual health clinics provide advice, contraception, pregnancy testing, and STD screening. Staff work to make the environment friendly and approachable for people of all ages.
• Pharmacies – Many pharmacies provide contraception without a prescription, such as condoms and emergency contraception (morning-after pill). Pharmacists can explain how each method is used and give information on local sexual health services. Some pharmacies take part in NHS schemes that provide emergency contraception free for young people.
• School Nurses – In secondary schools, nurses may give confidential advice about contraception and sexual health. They can link young people with local services and provide information leaflets.
• Online NHS Services – The NHS website gives clear guidance on different forms of contraception. This includes videos, pictures, and information about how each method works, its effectiveness, and possible side effects. The website also lists local clinics.
• Helplines and Charities – Organisations such as Brook run helplines and websites focused on sexual health for under-25s. They cover contraception, relationships, and emotional wellbeing. They may also offer in-person services in some areas.

Why These Sources Are Important

Reliable services make sure information is accurate and up to date. Using trusted health services ensures that people receive safe products and have access to professional advice. They also offer confidentiality, which is important for people who may feel worried about discussing sexual health with their family.

Sexually Transmitted Disease Testing

Sexually transmitted diseases are infections that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Common examples include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV.

Getting tested is important because some STDs have no noticeable symptoms at first. Without treatment, they can affect long-term health, cause pain, and impact fertility. Tests are often quick, simple, and painless.

Where to Obtain Testing and Support

• Sexual Health Clinics (NHS)
  These clinics offer free and confidential STD testing. Tests may involve swabs, urine samples, or blood tests. Results can often be given in a few days, sometimes on the same day. They also give treatment and support for anyone who tests positive.
• GP Surgeries
  Many GPs offer STD testing as part of patient care. People can book appointments and have samples taken during the visit. GPs can also treat infections or refer to specialist services.
• Young People’s Health Services
  In some areas, specialist health services focus on people under 25. They provide testing for STDs, contraception, and counselling in a safe environment. Staff are trained to work with younger clients and can give advice without judgement.
• Pharmacies
  Some pharmacies offer self-testing kits for common infections such as chlamydia. These kits can be posted to a lab for testing, and results are sent confidentially.
• Online NHS Kits
  Many areas of the UK have online services that send free self-testing kits to people’s homes. These kits often include instructions for taking a sample and sending it to a lab. Support information is provided, and treatment can be arranged if results are positive.
• Hospitals (Genito-Urinary Medicine Clinics)
  Some hospitals have specialist departments for sexual health known as GUM clinics. They provide STD testing, treatment, and counselling.
• Helplines and Charitable Organisations
  Charities such as the Terrence Higgins Trust offer support and information on STDs and testing. They run advice lines, drop-in centres, and online chat services.

Confidentiality in Testing

STD testing services operate under strict confidentiality rules. This means that results and records are kept private. Young people under 16 can access these services without parental involvement, as long as staff believe they understand the choices they are making. This builds trust and encourages more people to get tested early.

Role of Early Years and Playwork Staff in Signposting

Even in early years settings, staff can come into contact with parents, carers, and older siblings who may need advice about contraception or STD testing. Workers in playwork may also deal with older children and young people directly.

Your role is not to give direct medical advice on which method of contraception to use or to interpret test results. Instead, you guide people towards reliable sources and services where they can speak to trained professionals.

This means:

• Knowing about local health services
• Keeping up to date with new contact details and opening times
• Giving information in a respectful and non-judgemental way
• Encouraging people to seek help from professionals

Barriers to Access

Some people may face barriers in getting information or testing. These can include:

• Fear of judgement or stigma
• Lack of understanding about available services
• Worry about parents or carers finding out
• Transport problems to clinics
• Limited opening hours in rural areas

As a support worker, you can help lower these barriers by:

• Speaking in a friendly and reassuring tone
• Providing leaflets or website links people can access in private
• Being aware of outreach services, such as mobile clinics or youth health drop-ins
• Explaining confidentiality rules to remove fear about being exposed

Importance of Accurate Information

Giving inaccurate information about contraception or STD testing can put people’s health at risk. It can result in pregnancy where it was not intended or leave infections untreated.

For this reason, early years and playwork professionals should never rely on hearsay or unverified sources. Only signpost to recognised organisations such as the NHS, Brook, or well-known charities.

Practical Tips for Workers

• Keep a list of local clinics and services, updated regularly
• Carry leaflets or cards from health services when working in the community
• Know opening hours and whether services are appointment-based or walk-in
• Learn about online NHS services so you can show people how to use them
• Respect people’s privacy when they ask for information

Encouraging Safe Practices

When discussing services with young people or families, you can promote safe sexual health habits. This includes:

• Using condoms to prevent pregnancy and STDs
• Getting regular STD checks if sexually active
• Seeking advice before changing contraceptive methods
• Using emergency contraception as soon as possible if needed

Providing information about these habits in connection with where to get professional help makes the advice more effective.

Record Keeping in Professional Settings

Keep records of when and how you gave information about sexual health services, especially in cases involving young people. This protects you and confirms that you acted professionally. Records should never include personal details about someone’s sexual history unless part of safeguarding.

Final Thoughts

Signposting to contraception and STD testing services is about guiding people to safe, professional, and confidential help. Reliable access to these services can improve health and prevent unwanted outcomes.

In your role, focus on knowing where trusted help is available and communicating that clearly. Keep your information up to date, speak without judgement, and make sure your advice is based on recognised health authorities. This way you help people make informed choices and protect their wellbeing.