A recent 2006 report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has revealed that the UK has the second highest teenage birth rate in the developed world. The report also states that as a nation we have made little progress in combating this problem and draws particular attention to the lack of quality sex education in our schools as a primary cause.
In addition to this, between 1991 and 2001, the number of new episodes of sexually transmitted infections in the UK doubled amongst young people. These figures continue to rise with a recent article in The Observer newspaper headlining the ‘Deadly Peril of Teen Time Sex Bomb’.
There is no single explanation for these alarming trends however three factors have been identified as of particular interest:
‘Inside Out’ delivers accurate knowledge to young people about their sexual health, whilst at the same time encouraging them to have the self-confidence to make informed decisions throughout this important transitory period of their lives.
Whilst the main storyline focuses on the part sex plays in relationships between the characters, all areas of sexual health are addressed throughout the piece. As a company that promotes self-esteem, self-confidence and individuality, we believe that educating young people about the importance of stable and loving relationships is crucial to enable them to become happy individuals.
‘Inside Out’ helps young people understand the reasons for delaying sexual activity until they are genuinely ready and also makes clear the life-changing responsibilities of parenthood.
When asked about their experiences of sex education, young people often state that the dominant focus is on the physical aspects of reproduction with little meaningful discussion about feelings, relationships or values. ‘Inside Out’ explores the emotional aspect of sex education and provides a compelling platform for further discussion. The performance is accompanied by a Teacher’s Resource Pack with activities that enable young people to question the decisions of the characters in the play. This provides further healthy discussion via a third person.
Sexual health education does not encourage early sexual experimentation. It enables young people to have a more mature understanding of human sexuality and to respect themselves and others. ‘Inside Out’ provides clarity around a subject that is often complicated through mis-information, myth, confusion and embarrassment. The show is designed to give clear, accurate information in an honest, open and accessible manner. Education and awareness are vital in enabling a young person to protect him or herself and deal with the many pressures they may face. This is an issue where knowledge truly is power.
In this hour long piece we join Alice, and her mates from Wonderland FM radio station, as they journey through adolescence and come face to face with their feelings. As part this journey they are educated on many facts about sexual health in relation to: attitudes, relationships, sexuality, puberty, self awareness, contraception, sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV and AIDS) and male and female sexual health care.
Written and devised by Tracy O’Flaherty, Peter Tennant and the Chain Reaction Theatre Company, ‘Inside Out’ was originally funded by London Arts Board and the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
