What should I know?

Sexual Health is an integral part of our health and wellbeing. Although employers may not consider that workplace promotion of sexual health is their responsibility, poor sexual health is widespread and increasing. For example, diagnoses of the four major sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have shown a general increase in Scotland since 2004.  Other sexual health issues can include unplanned pregnancy, infertility and emotional problems.

However, by promoting positive sexual health, employers can benefit from the improved overall wellbeing of their workforce through the positive impact this can have on sickness absence levels and productivity.

• Information

Promote positive sexual health by providing access to information and encouraging the use of sexual health services.

Make information available to employees who work away from home, including those who travel abroad.

Highlight national campaigns including Sexual Health Week, World Aids Day, Contraceptive Awareness Week and Think About Sex Day.

• Activities

World Aids Day is a great way to raise awareness of positive sexual health. Use it as an opportunity to display posters and distribute leaflets to promote condom use and encourage sexual health service use.

Support staff that may be experiencing sexual health problems by identifying local support agencies and signposting staff to them e.g. SexualHealth Information Line, Sandyford Initiative, Healthy Gay Scotland.

Where can I get help?

FREE CONDOMS - http://www.freecondomsglasgowandclyde.org/

Sexual Health Scotland - www.sexualhealthscotland.co.uk

Sexual Health Information Line - 0800 22 44 88

Additional Information:
Family Planning Association	http://www.fpa.org.uk/
Terrence Higgins Trust	http://www.tht.org.uk/
HIV Scotland	http://www.hivscotland.com/
Sandyford Initiative	http://www.sandyford.org/
Fit For travel	http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/
Avert	http://www.avert.org/