POP Project
Posted by Michelle Stratford on Tue, 31 Aug 2010.
The POP Project
Sexual Health Services for Young People in Leicestershire & Rutland
When you use young people’s sexual health clinics around the county you are probably using services managed by the POP Project.
Our project trains professionals who work with young people to give you the sexual health services you need and want.
This means that when you use a POP Project service you can expect fully confidential, accurate and unbiased information and help from the staff. You can find POP Project clinics based at:
- Leicestershire County Council Youth Service clubs and sessions
- Connexions centres
- School nurse clinics
- FE colleges
- Children’s centres
There are lots of other independent sites and projects we work with too. A POP clinic also runs at our office in John Storer House in Loughborough - e-mail to find out more! pop@voluntaryactioncharnwood.org.uk
“Very friendly and lots of information to take away” woman, 16, after visiting a POP clinic
POP Project sites offer confidential help and information on lots of different things to do with sexual health and relationships. So, you can visit a clinic just to ask questions, talk to a trained adult confidentially about personal stuff, or to ask for free condoms, lube and pregnancy tests.
You can also contact the POP Project confidentially to find out where your nearest clinic is, to ask questions and to get information. We will get back to you as soon as possible! Just e-mail pop@voluntaryactioncharnwood.org.uk
What happens when I visit a POP Project clinic?
The staff member will talk to you about why you have come in and will chat with you about whatever you need to talk about.
When you first visit the clinic you will be asked for a first name and the staff member will explain about confidentiality and how the clinic works. They will take some notes, which will be locked away and only seen by other clinic staff who you may see next time you visit. This helps them give you a good service. Only if the staff think you or someone else might be in danger will they talk to someone else about you, and then only after telling you this is going to happen.
Can anyone go to a POP Project clinic?
The clinics are for young men and women aged 13 and above. They are for people of all sexualities and from all backgrounds. You don’t have to be having sex to use our services – they are there to answer questions and give support to everyone who needs it. Sometimes staff will help you find more specialist services if you need them.
Can I get condoms even if I’m under 16?
If you are under 16 the staff member will explain to you that it is against the law for you to be having sex. However, they will assess if you understand what you are doing and the risks you are taking and how to look after yourself. If they are confident that you do, then they will supply condoms and lube, following the POP Project’s guidelines.
"Having a service that is approachable and friendly has helped me to get hold of birth control regularly, without worry. This has helped me and my boyfriend have a safe relationship." Woman, 18, on using a POP service.