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Education, learning and attainment

Education, access, stigma and young people- Attitudes to contraception, condoms and sexual health

Brook · 2024

About this report

This Brook report explores young people's attitudes and perceptions of condoms, contraception, and sexual health services across England and Wales. It finds that concerns about hormonal contraception side effects are widespread, that stigma and lack of awareness are major barriers to condom access, and that young people rely heavily on social media and peers for sexual health information rather than formal sources. The report calls for improved RSE, investment in condom distribution schemes, and better-quality clinical consultations that give young people adequate time and genuine choice.

Research details

Methodology
SurveyInterviewFocus groupMixed methods
Sample size
2,387
Sample
Young people aged 16–24 in England and Wales; predominantly AFAB participants in the 2023 survey, with a supplementary 2024 survey targeting AMAB young people; over-representation of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Place
EnglandWales
Youth involvement
No youth involvement

Themes