CONTRACEPTIVE implants will be given to Huddersfield girls as young as 13 – if health workers consider them to be “mature” enough.
A report earlier this month found that doctors were found to be fitting implants in 13-year-old girls without their parents knowledge.
Now Dr Shirley Tabner, a health chief in Huddersfield, has confirmed that said that the decision on contraceptive implants locally is outlined by government guidance.
Dr Tabner, Clinical Lead for Contraception and Sexual Health Services at Locala Community Partnership – the organisation that provides community health services in Kirklees – said: “When a girl under 16 years of age comes to our service we follow Department of Health guidance.
“In essence this means we only fit an implant if the young girl is considered to be mature enough and it is in her best interests.
“We always encourage the young girl to tell a parent or a supportive adult and we give advice and support to help her do this.
“We also carry out an agreed risk assessment to check there is
no risk of exploitation or safeguarding issues.”
For more information on sexual health services available visit www.locala.org.uk/your-healthcare/contraception-and-sexual-health/
