YES - Jan Barlow, chief executive, Brook
With rising rates of chlamydia among young people, any initiative that makes it as easy as possible for young people to get tested and treated is welcome and should be open to anyone who might be at risk, including under-16s.
Pharmacists will need to be satisfied that young people understand what they are being tested for and the importance of seeking treatment if a test is positive. They should also be able to advise on how to avoid infection in future.
NO - Anne Weyman, chief executive, fpa
Rates of chlamydia are highest in the 16 to 24 age group and expanding testing to pharmacies is a good move to reduce the workload on clinics.
However, those under 16 are more vulnerable and need special support that would not be available in a pharmacy environment. Particular care is needed with this group to talk through the wider issues surrounding unprotected sex, such as peer pressure, as well as addressing their emotional and contraceptive needs.
YES - Gareth Goodier, chief executive, the Northwest London Strategic Health Authority
I'd support lowering the age a little. However, I'm not sure whether this is the mode for getting children under 16 to access services. Research from a marketing perspective has shown professionals doubt they'll be successful by doing it this way. But this doesn't change the fact that 30 per cent of males and 26 per cent of females under 16 are sexually active so if you're going to target young people who might have chlamydia, to draw a line seems arbitrary.
YES BUT - Norman Wells, director, Family Education Trust
While we welcome the early detection and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, the sexual health of young people will continue to suffer unless we address the root of the problem. We have ignored the protection intended by the age of consent, and helped young people conceal their risky sexual behaviour from their parents. In view of the high rates of reinfection, screening will be of limited value unless it is accompanied by changes in sexual behaviour.
