This page provides general advice about relationships that affect young people. This includes relationships with parents, school friends, girlfriends and boyfriends.
When you are growing up, you may find that you argue with people and fall out with them. Most arguments don't last long and are soon forgotten about. However some can last for a long time and this can make you feel very sad and alone.
Come and see us for some friendly advice
At your Local Connexions Centre you can make an appointment to see a Personal Adviser who can give you advice and guidance on this subject and many more. You can also contact us online to ask a question and receive a reply. To contact us online CLICK HERE.
 More on relationships...
Parents [BACK TO MENU]
Our parents always seem to be telling us what to do. But did you know that your parents have a legal duty to look after you? The law requires that your parents are responsible for you until you are 18 years old. It is understandable that from time to time you will have an argument with them, but this is all part of living at home and growing up.
Many people have left home only to find their problems become ten times worse. If you do argue with your parents, the best thing you can do is let it blow over and after a few days you will probably have forgotten about it. If you have any serious problems you can always talk to your Connexions Personal Adviser.
 Girlfriends / Boyfriends [BACK TO MENU]
You might be at the age where you have a girlfriend or boyfriend, and maybe sometimes you find you have difficulty getting on. This is something we all experience at some point in our lives. Have you tried sitting down and talking? Letting one person speak while the other listens?
If you are feeling lonely or angry because of a problem with a relationship Connexions can help. Come and see us for confidential help and advice.
- Click HERE to find your nearest Connexions Centre.
- Click HERE to Contact us online.
Using a simple web form you can ask us a question and receive a reply via email or telephone. This service is confidential and no one will know you have contacted us.
School Friends [BACK TO MENU]
School friends are an important part of growing up. We don't get on with everyone but instead tend to have our own circle of friends. Sometimes an argument or disagreement can mean we don't speak to our school friends. But is it worth it? If you have fallen out with someone at school the chances are you're probably both sorry but just won't admit it. Why lose a good friend? It's better to say sorry and be friends again than to stay silent. Try saying "hello" next time you see them, they will probably say it back.
Bullying [BACK TO MENU]
No one should accept being bullied. If you are being bullied click here to read our advice on the subject. There are many ways to prevent or stop bullying and you don't have to go through it alone. DONT BE FRIGHTENED to tell a parent or teacher if you are being bullied. You can also tell your Connexions Personal Adviser. Click here to contact one.
The Law and Sex (age of consent) [BACK TO MENU]
 Many teenagers think that adults are always making a big deal about people having underage sex. Some young people think that if they feel ready to have sex and they use protection, it has nothing to do with anyone else. This is not the case, and it is important that you know THE FACTS and THE LAW. To find out more visit www.avert.org/teensex.htm.
What is the age of consent?
The age of consent is the age at which the law says you are old enough to make your own decision about whether to have sex or not. Before you reach this age you cant legally have sex with anyone, however old they are.
In the UK the law says that both partners must be sixteen or over. This applies whether you're heterosexual, gay or lesbian.
But Our Parents Say it's OK. . .
That doesn't make any difference. You can't get around the laws for smoking, drinking or driving because your parents say it's OK, and it's the same with this. The age of consent laws always apply, whether you're in love, if you've been together for ages or even if you've already had sex.
What is 'Statutory Rape'?
If someone who is over the age of consent has sex with someone who is under the age of sixteen they can be charged with the crime of 'statutory rape'. It is important that you understand that it does not matter if both people agreed to having sex.
And What is Sexual Abuse?
This is when a person under the age of consent is pressured into any type of sexual contact that they do not want. If you know anyone who is being treated in this way, you should tell an adult or your Connexions Personal Adviser.
Where to get help and support [BACK TO MENU]
The websites below can provide more information and support.
Relate provide expert help on relationships including advice and support, counselling, sex therapy, workshops, mediation and consultations. Relate offer support face-to-face, by phone or via their website. To find your nearest Relate Centre, book a course or consult an expert online visit www.relate.org.uk.
The Samaritans Tel: 08457 90 90 90
Samaritans provides confidential emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide. You don't have to be suicidal to call us. We are here for you if you're worried about something, feel upset or confused, or you just want to talk to someone call the number above or visit the Samaritans website at www.samaritans.org.
 The NCH (National Childrens' Homes) helps children at risk or in care, vulnerable young people and families under pressure. NCH work falls into nine broad categories: Adoption, Disability, Early years and family support, Education, Family placement, Health, Participation and family rights, Residential care, Youth services. Please visit www.nch.org.uk.
 Barnardo's helps the most vulnerable children and young people transform their lives and fulfil their potential. Their website will tell you more about what they do. Visit Barnardos at www.barnardos.org.uk.
The Children's Society work with and for children to help them deal with life's harshest challenges and face the future with confidence. The Children's Society help young people who suffer from violence, abuse or neglect. For more information visit their website at www.childrenssociety.org.uk.
 The NSPCC is the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, and is the UK's leading charity specialising in child protection and the prevention of cruelty to children. We have been directly involved in protecting children and campaigning on their behalf since 1884. Visit www.nspcc.org.uk or call 0808 800 5000.
Refuge can help women and children who are victims of domestic violence. Refuge operate a 24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline on 0808 2000 247 in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge. Visit www.refuge.org.uk.
 The Site is an excellent website which offers a wide range of help, advice and information. TheSite.org covers issues such as Sex and Relationships, Drugs and Alcohol, Health, Home, Law and Money, Travel and Free Time, Work and Study. Visit www.thesite.org.
 Need 2 Know offers detailed balanced information for 13 to 19 year olds and the lifestyle issues they face such as Health, Money, Time Out, Travel, Relationships, Learning, Work, Law, Housing, Environment. www.need2know.co.uk.
After Adoption helps people deal with the difference adoption brings to their lives. They provide information, support, family work and counselling through a wide range of services. Call the ACTION line on 0800 0 568 578 or TALK adoption on 0808 808 1234. Also visit their website at www.afteradoption.org.uk.
 The Hideout provides help, information and support for children and young people – whether you’re currently living with violence, you’ve experienced violence in the past or if you know someone else going through it and you’re looking for help and information this site is for you. Visit www.thehideout.org.uk for more information.
How old do you need to be to do different things like get a job, join the army, drive a moped or get your own passport?
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT
 Connexions Direct: Call any time 8am - 2am, we are open every day. Call FREE 080 800 13 2 19 or visit www.Connexions-Direct.com.
 Gateshead AD(H)D Support. Gateshead ADHD Support is a registered charity which gives help and support to parents and carers of children or young people with ADHD. What is ADHD? ADHD stands for Attention Deficit (with Hyperactivity) Disorder. There are three types of ADHD. 1 Inattentive (dreamy, non listening, easily distracted). 2 Hyperactive / Impulsive (fidgety, restless, impulsive, impatient) and 3 Combined (inattentive plus the hyperactive impulsive behaviours). Most children with A.D.(H).D will have special educational needs as it affects their ability to learn. For help and support telephone 0191 4960078, email: gatesheadadhd@yahoo.co.uk or visit the Gateshead ADHD website at www.gatesheadadhdsupport.co.uk.
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