Sex education is important for young people to not only develop a positive view on sex but, as the World Health Organisation says, to “protect their health, develop respectful social and sexual relationships, make responsible choices and understand and protect the rights of others”.

For the 463 UEA responses to the sex survey, 53% were currently in a relationship and 36% were single. The data by gender revealed that more female than male respondents were “unsure” of their own sexuality, at a 5.4% to 1.8% difference. Heterosexual respondents made up 47% of the total survey, with 43% of female respondents and 63% of male respondents.

The results revealed that 180 of respondents either did not or do not remember getting ‘the talk’ from their parents. For respondents who did, there was a mixed response for how effective ‘the talk’ was. Some respondents said they were given a book by their parents, others said their parents did not communicate the topic well, and others said that their parents discussed sex education well. For respondents who did not get the talk and for those who did, other forms of education they experienced was through researching online, reading books, social media, school education, and friends.

In answering what respondents’ favourite piece of advice was around sex, respondents stressed the importance of not only communicating one’s own feelings around and during sex, but to also through checking in with their partner. Communication was key in many responses, saying that there is a need “discuss boundaries”, “be respectful”, and to “listen to your partner”.

Along with communication, respondents also stressed the importance of safe sex in sexual relationships. The Sexual Health Hub explains that safe sex is when steps are put in place to reduce the risk of catching a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STI) and having an unwanted pregnancy. Some of these steps include “always using a condom, making sure the condom you use has a quality kite mark,” and “not letting alcohol or drugs impair your decisions”. Respondents made similar suggestions, including to wear protection (7 respondents), use a condom (4 respondents), and to not be afraid of setting boundaries (5 respondents).

Positivity around sex was also a prevalent finding in the survey. The Sexual Health Alliance explains that sex positivity is “all about embracing and celebrating the many beautiful expressions of human sexuality”, aiming to “break down societal stigmas, shame, and judgment surrounding sex”. Positivity around sexual pleasure can help reduce stress, boost mood, and enhance self-esteem. 29 of the respondents said their favourite advice around sex was to have fun, and 25 said to enjoy the experience.

Overall, the respondents of the UEA Concrete sex survey show that sex comes down to more than who does and does not want tea. The respondents to the sex survey showed that an understanding of healthy relationships, discussing boundaries, safe sex, and having a positive outlook were all important values in and around UEA. After all, as one respondent puts it: “be safe, be kind, have fun.”

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