This episode features an in-depth interview with Joe Harris. Joe has worked in the field of sexual health for almost 30 years, during which time he has been employed in both the community and statutory sectors. He worked for the Family Planning Association in Northern Ireland as a Project Officer before joining the Belfast Trust Sexual Health Training Team. Joe is the sexual health lead for the Health Improvement Team within the Belfast Trust, and organises the Annual Regional Sexual Health Conference in Northern Ireland. He is also a Trustee of Common Youth.
During the interview Joe reflects on the messages he received around relationships and sexuality growing up; his early career and journey into the field of sexual health; working with young men and the issues they faced; providing RSE training to teachers; changing attitudes towards the teaching of RSE; the recent changes announced to the education curriculum by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; involving parents in the teaching of RSE; the upcoming Annual Regional Sexual Health Conference; and his aspirations for sexual and reproductive health going forward.
Useful links
https://informingchoicesni.org/
Legislation
The Relationships and Sexuality Education (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2023
Consultation
Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) Consultation
Research
Any use? report
A thematic evaluation of the preventative curriculum in schools and EOTAS centres
Relationships and Sexuality Education in Post Primary Schools in Northern Ireland: A Compelling Case for Reform