Having a relationship with a boyfriend or girlfriend is a normal part of life.  It can be great to have someone special to go places with and be around.  But we are all different, so the best advice is to wait until you feel ready for a relationship and not to feel pressurised to have one.

When you are in a relationship, what that relationship involves will depend on your age, what you and your partner want, how you both feel and your personal beliefs.  If you are 16 or over you can legally have sex, so long as your partner is also 16+, but it doesn’t mean you have to.  If you are having sex or planning to, make sure you know how to protect yourself from STDs and pregnancy.

For many people, talking about sex is incredibly difficult.  However, there are agencies locally and nationally who can support you with all issues around sex and sexuality.  See the links below for places to get support, information and advice.

Further information:

Juice

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (Internal link) 

Relationships (BBC Advice)

Relationships (Childline)

Sex and relationships (The Site)

This is abuse 

Please note: additional relevant information and links can be found on our sexual health page.