Working with those aged 13 to 16 years

What if a young person is under the age of 16?

The legal age of consent to have sex in Scotland is 16. However, some young people under the age of 16 are taking part in consensual sexual activity. Therefore, we have a duty to support them to be safe. The service makes free condoms available to young people between the ages of 13-15. It is important that young people under the age of 16 are able to access free condoms in order to prevent HIV, sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy.

There is no law in existence which prevents individuals under the age of 16 from obtaining condoms, or distributing condoms to those under 16.

The current legal framework allows professionals working with young people, including those under 16, to provide information about the use of condoms. Similarly, there are no legal restrictions regarding professionals providing sexual health information, advice and support. If your outlet does not have experience of working with young people, you may consider signposting to a local youth service.

As with all other service users, there is no need to complete monitoring forms for this age group. 

Under the age of 13, you should not be providing products to young people.

If you think there may be a case of abuse or exploitation, then refer to your organisational or local child protection policies and guidelines.