Thursday 09-02-2017 - 09:47

 

 

 

So it’s almost SHAG week, and no, that doesn’t mean that we’re encouraging you to go out and get saucy.

SHAG stands for Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance week and this year it’s going to be held between the 20th -24th of February.

So what is SHAG week all about, well let me tell you! Throughout the week we will have plenty of information dotted around campus about sex and for the first year ever we will also have information about virginity and abstinence; because you know what? People’s choices are different and that’s okay :)

As I’ve mentioned in previous blogs, moving to University can be a confusing and difficult time where many people are still coming to grips with their sexuality, sexual orientation and sexual identity. The University environment (especially when living in halls) can foster a pressuring environment when it comes to sex. Let’s just face the facts, everyone is doing it, your flat mates’ are doing it, your class mates are doing it, hell even your parents are probably doing it! (sorry for scaring you with that mental image)

Now think back to when you were in secondary school and your sex education class (if you had one that is), yeah, it was probably s*** to say the least. Sex education in the UK is lacking considerably as it fails to teach us at a young age about healthy relationships, that saying no or abstaining is okay, how to improve sex life, the scale of gender and most importantly, what consent is. Yeah, I suppose that people can get all this information online (and more) these days but is it the right information and is it fully understood?

The whole point of SHAG week aims to change all of that, headed up by the lovely people in your SU we aim to use this week as a platform for learning (yes, learning! you are at University after all) and encouraging open conversations around sex, consent and sexual harassment (how to report sexual harassment will be part of the week as well). Don’t worry though it isn’t all going to be boring talks and information stands, oh no! We have plenty on offer from the Big Sex Quiz, speed dating, SHAG packs, film showings, bits and bobs cake stall (because who doesn’t like a willy shaped cake) and a lot more.

Staying safe physically, mentally and sexually is important so get involved and take part! Oh and FYI I have included information and contact details of the local GUM clinics bellow :) Have fun and stay safe!

Wrexham and Flintshire Clinic