Why talk to young people?

Because...

• Abortion is a legally available option that young people are entitled to know about.
• To ensure comprehensive sex and relationships education.
• So that young people can acknowledge and consider different points of view.
• To encourage empathy and understanding.
• To explore myths and clarify facts.
• To give information.
• To reduce the stigma and taboo associated with it.
• To give young people an opportunity to explore the issues before ever needing to cope with a real situation.
• So that young people know that if they or their partner ever experience unintended pregnancy or abortion, they’re not alone.
• To make it a safe subject to discuss.
• To signpost to appropriate sources of help and advice.
• So young people know their rights.
• To enable informed choice.

To avoid unintended pregnancy

Unintended pregnancy is experienced by more young people in Britain than anywhere else in Europe. It’s essential therefore that young people have the opportunity to consider all of their options around pregnancy – one of those options is abortion.

Talking to young people about abortion means they can explore fully the issues unintended pregnancy presents - in doing so they are better placed both to avoid unintended pregnancy in the first place, and to manage it should it ever become a reality.

Because young people will hear about it anyway

Abortion features regularly in newspaper headlines, in film and on TV. It might be discussed by friends or by family at home, school or work. Providing an environment in which young people can reach their own conclusions and learn the facts about abortion is essential to informed choice. Addressing abortion within sex and relationships or religious education provides the ideal opportunity to explore the issue in a safe and engaging way. For our good practice guidance on abortion education click here.

Because young people need accurate information

Outside of formal education there may be far fewer opportunities for a young person to receive accurate and impartial information and advice about pregnancy or abortion. Where advice is sought it is likely to be because the young person already suspects or has confirmed a pregnancy. Enabling a young person to access support, to explore and weigh up each of their options and to reach their own decision is essential to securing a good outcome for the individual. For decision making tool click here.