A young lived experience advocate from Angus has added her voice to growing calls for mandatory Relationships, Sexual Health and Parenting education in schools across Scotland, warning that inconsistency is leaving too many young people exposed to unhealthy relationships.
Rachel Talbot, 19, an NSPCC Scotland Lived Experience Advocate, says the issue becomes even more acute at times like Valentine’s Day, when pressure around relationships intensifies for young people.
“Relationship Sexual Health and Parenting education is always important, even more so around Valentine’s.
“This day can put a lot of pressure on everyone to find love, but that is especially prevalent amongst young people.
“The idea of the perfect romcom-type Instagram-ready love can blind people to red flags and make it harder to recognise unhealthy relationships in favour of keeping up with peers.”
She supports the NSPCC’s Read, Write, Relationships campaign, which is calling for high quality, consistent RSHP education for every young person in Scotland.
“The NSPCC has worked with young people in Scotland on this issue and they said this education is patchy, out of touch with their lives and doesn’t cover the topics that matter most to them.
“Without this, many young people are left on an unequal playing field when it comes to looking out for themselves and friends in the face of unhealthy relationships.”
Rachel says RSHP education is not only about romantic relationships, but about friendships, boundaries, and recognising harm.
“Growing up experiencing bullying, I cannot stress the importance of teaching young people about healthy relationships, not only in the hope that bullying will be reduced or eradicated, but also so that those facing it can recognise that it isn’t right, not their fault, and they know how and where to seek support for what they are dealing with.”
She also highlighted the importance of accessible support for young people who are struggling.
“Young people can contact Childline 24 hours a day, seven days a week, about anything that’s worrying them by calling 0800 1111 or using a one to one chat online.”
Campaigners say making RSHP education mandatory would ensure every young person, regardless of where they live or which school they attend, receives the same foundation in understanding consent, respect, boundaries, and personal safety.
For Rachel, the issue is simple and urgent, with real consequences for young people navigating relationships, friendships, and online spaces without the knowledge or confidence they need to protect themselves and support one another.
