LIFE statement on being invited to join the Sexual Health Forum

LIFE is delighted to receive an invitation to join the core panel of the recently convened Sexual Health Forum, which replaces the Independent Advisory Group on Sexual Health and HIV.

 Many people are rightly concerned about the state of sexual health in this country, especially that of teenagers. It is also a major area of concern for LIFE. We have spent forty years providing much needed services in this area, including non-directive counselling to women in crisis pregnancy and after abortion, housing support schemes for young mums and their babies, a FertilityCare service for those struggling with infertility, and an educational service which incorporates a sex and relationships programme that is delivered to thousands of students every year. Our wealth of experience and expertise working at the coalface is the reason why, we believe, we have been invited to participate in this forum.

 Furthermore, differing viewpoints deserve a place at the table when the government is considering how best to deal with sexual health. We will, of course, be listening, as well as talking, because we believe that there is considerable common ground between LIFE and other members of the panel. We look forward to working constructively towards shared goals, and we are confident that our different approach will help open up new areas of fruitful dialogue and co-operation in promoting and improving sexual health.