I am in the process of setting up an outreach sexual health service in a local walk-in centre, trying to attract people who won't traditionally attend normal sexual health clinics, young people in particular. One of the first groups I want to attract is young men, for screening and treatment of sexually transmitted infections and to provide information about sex, relationships, etc. There is a lot of research about why young men are such a difficult group to target for this type of thing - they are so unwilling to attend clinics and usually have to be forcibly dragged in by girl-friends or wait until they have active symptoms of an infection (present usually for WEEKS!) before they attend on their own accord. Can you ask your sons and/or partners why they do not (or did not in the past) like attending services, particularly just for a check-up / peace of mind / free condoms etc.
In terms of STI's, this country has a real problem going on and i think men are so often left out of the equation - even though they are half the problem! Men are seen to be the hard to reach group (true!) but I do feel they are neglected and I am really keen to provide a fully inclusive service. I would love to hear some real opinions, just to give me some recent honest and fully-anonymous feedback on this issue (I am going to do more thorough in-depth local analysis later). I wonder what the mumsnet men have to say about the subject as I hope it would provide a true snap shot of some of the issues facing young men.
This is a real long shot as I know most sexually active teenagers won't want to tell their mum about their experiences with sexual health services, but there may be a few who will.... and also for male partners who are willing to share their opinions about this issue.
Is it because they are:
Frightened? Scared? In denial? Don't know what to expect? Not interested in attending? Don't think they needed to?
What would make them more willing to attend services?
More warning about what to expect? A better understanding of what the clinics do? Assurance of confidentiality? Friendly staff? Non-invasive tests?
I really thank everyone in advance who takes time to consider this post and I appreciate any answers you may have!