Sexual Health JSNA

Evidence base

This section provides links and a brief summary of a robust evidence base. For example, peer-reviewd studies, systematic revies, evaluations of interventions and best practice guidelines from national sources.

Issue number 1 = highest priority
1	Source	Department for Education
	Title incl. web link	Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education and Health Education guidance
	Summary	Statutory guidance outlining what schools must teach in RSHE including: Consent, contraception and STIs Healthy relationships and online safety LGBTQ+ inclusive education Mental and emotional wellbeing
	Source	NICE Guidance
	Title incl. web link	Contraceptive services for under 25s Recommendations \| Contraceptive services for under 25s \| Guidance \| NICE
	Summary	Recommendations, including: Assessing local need to target services effectively Providing tailored contraceptive services for young people, especially those who are socially disadvantaged Ensuring confidentiality and consent including for those under 16 Offering contraception post-pregnancy or abortion Delivering education-based services and emergency contraception Training professionals to communicate effectively with young people
2	Source	NICE Guidance
	Title incl. web link	Sexual Health Quality statement 4: Access to sexual health services \| Sexual health \| Quality standards \| NICE
	Summary	NICE explicitly recommends: Prompt access to services (within 2 working days) Walk-in clinics with reasonable wait times Flexible service models to reduce inequalities Confidentiality and accessibility as key quality measures
	Source	Office for Health Improvement & Disparities
	Title incl. web link	Integrated sexual health service specification Integrated sexual health service specification
	Summary	National specification developed by OHID and UKHSA which includes: Digital services for booking, triage and results Outreach and targeted interventions for underserved groups Youth-friendly and inclusive service design Staff training on safeguarding, communication and cultural competence
3	Source	NHS
	Title incl. web link	Sexual Health Services https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/sexual-health-services/find-a-sexual-health-clinic/
	Summary	Sexual health clinics (GUM clinics) operate independently of GPs, offering confidential services. GPs can refer patients, but referrals are not required, patients can self-refer. Information sharing between GPs and clinics is limited unless the patient consents, to preserve confidentiality. Some GP surgeries offer sexual health services, including STI testing and contraception, but may refer to specialist clinics for complex cases. This highlights the need for better integration to ensure continuity of care, especially for vulnerable groups.
	Source	Care Quality Commission
	Title incl. web link	GP mythbuster 72: Sexual and reproductive healthcare GP mythbuster 72: Sexual and reproductive healthcare - Care Quality Commission
	Summary	The Care Quality Commission (CQC) outlines expectations for continuity and quality in sexual and reproductive healthcare: Practices must ensure timely access to services like emergency contraception, STI testing, and cervical screening. Routine contraceptive appointments should consider expiry dates and supply continuity. Referral pathways must be in place for services not offered in-house. Follow-up support should be available where needed, especially after procedures or diagnoses This guidance promotes holistic, non-discriminatory care across all age groups.