5 reasons why good RSE is not only important but essential 

In this blog, Rebecca Shutt, Brook’s Head of Education, talks about the evidence for Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) in schools and why we all need to support high-quality RSE. 

At Brook, we believe that all young people have the right to high-quality Relationships and Sex Education (RSE). And we’ve been fighting for this right for the six decades Brook has existed. 

And it’s not just our belief.

There is ample evidence proving that high quality RSE delivered at the right time, safeguards, protects and empowers young people.  

Here are five ways that research and evidence has shown that RSE keeps young people safe, happy and healthy: 

You can also watch our new animation which sums it up in 3 minutes and is an accessible way to convey this message to parents, carers and teachers alike. 

1. RSE reduces sexual violence and tackles rape culture 

One of the most significant effects of RSE is that it can play a key role in reducing sexual and domestic violence. It also helps combat rape culture.  

By challenging the attitudes and ideas that contribute to rape culture and sexual violence, RSE can help to foster a safer school and society. 

RSE has also been proven to help reduce child sexual abuse and exploitation by teaching children and young people about bodily autonomy and communication.  

2. Encourages disclosure of abuse 

Young people who receive RSE are more likely to get help in instances of sexual abuse or domestic violence.  

RSE creates an environment where young people feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics. Learning and talking about topics such as bodily autonomy, consent and healthy relationships, in a safe, comfortable space can all help to make sure young people get help when they need it.  

3. Promotes safe sexual health practices 

RSE doesn’t increase sexual activity. What it does do, is encourage safer sex and improve sexual health. Young people who don’t receive RSE are more likely to take sexual risks including sex before the legal age of consent and unprotected sex. 

By equipping young people with accurate information about contraception, condoms and sexual health, RSE helps prevent unintended pregnancies and STIs and empowers young people to make informed decisions about their sexual health.  

4. Timely and consensual sexual experiences 

RSE means young people are more likely to have consensual sexual experiences that happen at the right time.  

There’s no evidence that RSE means young people will have sex earlier – in fact, high-quality RSE can delay first sex until the right time for each young person. It also means first sex is more likely to be consensual. 

5. Fosters inclusivity and mental health 

RSE is a powerful tool for reducing gender or sexuality-based bullying and improving mental health outcomes.  

By promoting empathy, understanding, and acceptance of diverse identities, RSE contributes to creating a more inclusive society.  

When young individuals are educated about different sexual orientations and gender identities, they are less likely to engage in discriminatory behaviours and more likely to foster positive mental health for themselves and their peers. 

Stigma is a major contributing factor to health inequality, particularly when it comes to sexual health and mental health. Talking about sensitive topics in RSE helps remove shame and embarrassment and helps overcome the silence, fear and prejudice which reinforces stigma. 

We need RSE more than ever 

The evidence for Relationship and Sex Education is undeniable. It equips young people with the knowledge and skills to lead safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives. 

The need for RSE has also not gone away, in fact many of the problems it addresses have become more acute including:  

• safeguarding children online and off   
• young people’s poor mental and sexual health   
• exposure to extreme pornography   
• misogyny, sexual bullying and harassment  
• violence against LGBT+ people 

The evidence and need for RSE has never been more convincing. Despite this, vocal opposition to inclusive Relationships and Sex Education is on the increase. As a result, the Government is reviewing and revising the Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) guidance.  

We need more people to stand up for high-quality, inclusive RSE.  

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, young person, organisation, MP or simply someone that believes that high-quality, inclusive RSE should be protected, please sign our pledge.  

The data from this blog is based on Sex Education Forum’s report, Relationships and Sex Education: The Evidence. 

Watch our animation