CALL FOR SEX EDUCATION RECEIVES BACKING

Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, has welcomed moves by MPs to require compulsory sex and relationship education in all schools. MPs from all political parties are supporting an amendment to the Children and Social Work Bill, currently going through Parliament, that will require all secondary schools to teach sex and relationship education.

“I very much welcome the fact that sex and relationship education may be made compulsory in all schools later this year.”

“In South Yorkshire we have become increasingly aware of the need for this, not least because of issues that come to the attention of the police.”

“In today’s highly sexualised world, where every child has easy access to the internet, education and guidance is urgently needed. Young people need to understand the importance of mutually respectful relationships as the context for sex. They need help in recognising and dealing with bullying and peer pressure and the meaning of consent in sexual relationships. They need guidance in realising the dangers in sexting and on-line sexual exploitation.”

It seems very likely that MPs will support amendments to the Bill that could see the introduction of compulsory sex and relationship education in all schools from as early as September this year. Local MP, Sarah Champion is one of those supporting the amendment which as cross-party support.