Compulsory sex education plans backed by South Yorkshire policing boss

MPs from across the political divide are backing an amendment to the Children and Social Bill, currently going through parliament, requiring all secondary schools to teach sex and relationship education.

South Yorkshire's police and crime commissioner Dr Alan Billings claims the move would make young people more alert to the dangers of sexting and online sexual exploitation.

"I very much welcome the fact that sex and relationship education may be made compulsory in all schools later this year," he said.

“In South Yorkshire we have become increasingly aware of the need for this, not least because of issues that come to the attention of the police.

"In today’s highly sexualised world, where every child has easy access to the internet, education and guidance is urgently needed. Young people need to understand the importance of mutually respectful relationships as the context for sex.

"They need help in recognising and dealing with bullying and peer pressure and the meaning of consent in sexual relationships. They need guidance in realising the dangers in sexting and on-line sexual exploitation."

Compulsory sex education could be introduced as early as September, should the amendments to the bill be approved.

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