What do you do? I give puberty talks and sex education in school settings, pupil referral units and adolescent health clinics. I also train other professionals - community and youth workers and sexual health advisers - in working with young men. I try to be a role model to boys and a familiar face at the clinic.
Do you link up with other professionals, agencies or organisations in your work? Who? I meet predominantly with other professionals, including school health advisers, health visitors, youth and community workers and anyone else who works with young people.
How did you get the job and what qualifications do you need? I have a background in youth and community work. When I saw the job advertised in the local paper I felt that I could apply my skills to the post. The main skills you need are communication and listening skills. For example, if some young people say they don't access a health service, I try to find out why and go and negotiate with them about how it might become accessible for them.
What's the biggest thrill or the most rewarding aspect of the job? I think the best thing about the job is when young people want to take my training further and want more information. By engaging them I allow them to express their concerns and challenge myths.
What's the biggest headache? That there aren't enough hours in the day.
