A report by the Family Education Trust, called Unprotected, argues that prevention services have contributed to normalising underage sex by prioritising the reduction of underage pregnancy at the expense of protecting young people from abuse.
The report draws together findings from eight serious case reviews, including Professor Alexis Jay's Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation in Rotherham.
It says evidence from these demonstrates professionals "routinely provide contraception to young people under the legal age of consent in confidence, without considering the possibility that they may be suffering abuse".
The foreword to the report states: "In case after case, the sexual abuse of young people has been facilitated by the willingness of agencies to provide minors with birth control with very few questions being asked."
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
