RCN supports Sexual Health Week 4th – 10th August
Published: 04 August 2008
Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), said:
“Nurses are often the first point of contact when dealing with sexual health issues, and this year’s theme for Sexual Health Week, It’s My Right! provides an opportunity to educate nurses on how to provide specific advice and information on sexual health for people with learning disabilities.
“It is important healthcare professionals, and indeed the public, understand the challenges and sensitivities of sexuality and sexual health, even more so for people with learning disabilities who need additional support.
“The RCN supports the Family Planning Association’s efforts to raise awareness about the issue of sexual health for people with learning disabilities and encourages healthcare professionals, including nurses, to take the lead in promoting this campaign in the community.
“We urge the Government to further invest in education and training opportunities for nurses in the field and for those considering working in sexual health. It is in the public’s interest.”
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Notes to Editors
For information on the FPA’s Sexual Health Week 2008, Its My Right! campaign visit www.fpa.org.uk.
For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit http://www.rcn.org.uk/news/mediacentre.php
Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.