If you are thinking about having sex (whether it's the first time or the fiftieth), then it is important that you are ready, can enjoy it, and can take responsibility for it. This means protecting yourself and others with the right contraception for you and being clear on consent.
Any sort of sexual contact without consent is illegal whatever the age of the people involved. If it helps, just imagine instead of initiating sex you’re making them a cup of tea.
Relationships
No matter how old you are; whether you’re gay or straight or in a long or short term relationship, some things should look the same if the relationship is a healthy and happy one. All relationships have ups and downs, but they should be based on respect, trust, and communication. That’s true whether it’s your relationship with your best friend, your teacher or your partner.
However, if you are feeling scared, unhappy or your partner tries to control what you wear or who you see, it may be time to think if that relationship is right for you.
There are further sources of information both locally and nationally in the lists below. All links will open in a new window.