Young people talk about 'it'

Along with the free food, free safer sex packs containing condoms and information will be on the menu.

The Wigan Sex Talkers, a group set up to educate youngsters on sex, relationships and health, want to encourage more to join them - and give others the chance to discuss problems.

The initiative is run by Wigan Youth Service and Brook and is made up of eight people between the ages of 16 and 23.

They run regular workshops for other young people throughout the borough. The picnics and barbecues will be open to everyone under 25, and will give visitors a chance to get involved in a debate about sex education.

Talker Vicki Briscow, 18, has been involved with the group since it started last September.

She said: "We thought the events would be good, informal settings so young people will be comfortable enough to approach us and think about becoming a talker themselves.

" A group like us is needed because there's not enough sex education in schools.

"In school they teach you about the biological side of sex, but nobody ever talks about the emotions involved.

"We know from the feedback we've had at the end of our workshops that young people feel a lot more comfortable talking to others like them."

She adds: "Being involved has been a really good experience for me. I've become a lot more confident and I find it easier to talk to new people than I used to."

The first barbecue kicks off at Leigh Youth Service, 55, Church Street, Leigh, tomorrow.

This will be followed by a picnic at the bandstand on August 16 in Mesnes Park, Wigan, a picnic in the flower garden at Ashton Jubilee Park on August 18 and a picnic again at Church Street, Leigh, on August 20.

All events run from 12noon to 2.30pm and there is no need to book.

For more information about how to get involved with the group contact youth worker Sally Carr on 01942 203955.

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