Fact Sheet: Relationship Issues

Healthy Relationship Triangle

The "Healthy Relationship Triangle" is made up of three important parts: Trust, Respect, and Communication. These are the building blocks of any strong and positive relationship, whether it's with friends, family, or even in dating. Here's why each one matters:

Trust means you can count on each other and feel safe, knowing that the other person has your back.
Respect is all about valuing each other’s differences, opinions, and boundaries, making sure everyone feels heard and treated fairly.
Communication helps you express your thoughts and feelings clearly, and it’s key to solving problems and understanding each other better.

When these three things are part of your relationships, not only do your connections with others grow stronger, but they also help you feel more confident and supported in being your true self. Having relationships built on trust, respect, and good communication gives you a solid foundation to rely on, making you feel stronger and more confident overall.

Video Link: The Healthy Relationships Triangle | Get Real Sessions

Abusive Relationships

Abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender identity, sex, or sexual orientation. Warning signs of a toxic or abusive relationship include jealousy, isolation from friends, and pressure to do things you're uncomfortable with. Abuse isn't always physical—it can be emotional, psychological, financial, or sexual.

Sometimes toxic relationships start with "love bombing," where someone showers you with attention, but it can signal controlling or obsessive behaviour. While it's normal to argue, no one should feel scared, controlled, or pressured, including when online. If you're in a toxic or abusive relationship, we’re here to help.

Further support: Home - Respect not Fear

Poster Link: Healthy Relationships Checklist (idas.org.uk)

Sexual Health

In the UK, the legal age of consent is 16. However, no matter your age, only have sex when you feel truly ready and confident in your decision.

If you're unsure who to talk to, you can reach out to us at 01344 311200 to speak confidentially with one of our counsellors. It's also a good idea to read up on the topic (see links below) and talk openly with your partner or someone you trust.

While relationships can be exciting, it's important to think about things like contraception, pregnancy, and protecting against sexually transmitted infections. Being prepared shows, you are taking care of your health and your future.

If your partner isn’t ready or doesn’t want to have sex, don’t pressure them. It’s crucial that both of you feel comfortable with your choices.

Further Support: Young People's Sexual Health Advice and Guidance Team

Sexual Health for people aged 19 and under - Safe Sex Berkshire

Under 19’s in Bracknell-Forest can text sexual health questions to 078600 200 30. This SMS service is anonymous and is provided by the Bracknell-Forest Youth Service.

The Garden Clinic, Skimped Hill Health Centre, Skimped Hill Lane, Bracknell
0300 365 7777
safesexberkshire.com

Drop-in sessions (no appointment needed) offer confidential help and advice about sexual health including:
•   Pregnancy testing
•   Sexually transmitted infections advice and chlamydia testing
•   Condom distribution
•   Contraception
•   Relationship advice

Parental Support: Guiding Teens Through Relationships

Supporting your teenager through relationships can be challenging, but it's an important part of helping them grow. This section offers practical tips and guidance for parents to navigate conversations around relationships with understanding and care. Explore the ideas below to foster open communication and provide the support your adolescent needs.

7 Tips to Support Your Young Person’s Learning About Relationships and Sex

Spend time together, even casually, to keep communication open. It doesn't have to be anything special — watch TV, play Xbox, go for a walk, have lunch, or cook together — just focus on spending time with them. Even if they don't seem very excited, simply being together helps keep communication open.
Ask about their interests to understand what influences them. 'What youtuber are you watching?', 'What games are you playing?', 'What are you reading?' and 'What’s good about it?’. This shows you are interested in them and what they care about. It also helps you to keep track of what is having an influence on them.
Be mindful of your own views on relationships and sex. How might your reactions affect others and what you tell/ teach your child. What views and opinions do you want to pass on?
Use simple, clear language to answer their questions. Relationships and sex can be challenging to talk about. Be clear about what they are actually wanting to know - 'That's a good question or interesting word, where did you hear that word/about that?/ what do you think that means?' - then explain using clear language.
Admit when you don’t know something and learn together. It can help them to know you don’t know everything either and this can open up the conversation for the future.
Discuss relationships in TV, films, and songs with them. Ask them what they think about what’s happening or questions like, ‘Do you think they are both happy?’, ‘Who has the power in the relationship?’, ‘Do you think that’s fair?’, ‘What would you do in that situation?’, ‘Why do you think that happened?’
Approach mistakes with understanding, not blame or shame. If they make a mistake in their relationships or with sex and tell you about it, let them share their side. They likely want your help, not judgment. Avoid blaming or shaming them, as this can shut down the conversation. If you do react strongly, apologise, explain why, and then listen to their perspective and offer support.