Child Health 6 - Jennie

The Case

Sex

Open Question

During your clinic consultation you utilise the HEADSS interview technique.  When talking about sexuality with Jennie she discloses to you that she has had a boyfriend for 18 months who is also 15.  They have been thinking about having sex for the first time.  What does UK law say regarding sexual relations?

Open Question

Jennie and her boyfriend are both under 16.  Is it illegal for them to have sex and if so what would you advise?

References
  1. Home Office, Children and Families: Safer from Sexual Crime – The Sexual Offences Act 2003, London: Home Office Communications Directorate, 2004
  2. Sexual Offences Act 2003, Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland order) 2008 and Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009