This module will develop the students knowledge and understanding of English Law around sexual health issues and its impact on their work environment, while considering the student's professional codes of conduct, organisational policies and procedures.

The indicative content will examine issues associated with sexual health such as consent, confidentiality, child protection and human rights. Considering legislation such as The Children Act (1989), Venereal Disease Act (1974, amended 2000), The Sexual Offences Act (2003), Human Rights Act (1998), Female Genital Mutilation Act (2003), The Adoption and Children Act (2003) along with an explanation of the Government's Consultation processes and the passage of Green and White Papers through to becoming Law. A thorough exposition of any key judicial interpretations of the aforementioned statutory provisions will be provided. The module will also examine the seminal common law development in Gillick v West Norfolk and Wisbech AHA [1986] A.C. 112 and subsequent case law, that will impact on practitioners decisions e.g. Re R [1992] Fam 11, the interpretation of The Family Law Reform Act 1969 given in Re W (a minor)(medical treatment) [1992] 4 All ER 627

Key publications from Government Departments and their impact on the students own area of practice will also be considered.

Brazier, Margaret, Medicine, Patients and the Law (2003, London, Penguin
Department of Health (2001) National Strategy for Sexual Health and HIV. London. DOH
Gillick v Wisbech and W Norfolk AHA (1985) 3 A11 ER 402 HL
Grubb, Andrew, Kennedy and Grubb Medical Law (2000, London, Butterworths)

Library and Information Services
Internet
PC and printer
CD-ROM and databases for electronic literature searching
Course handouts
Email access to relevant staff at appropriate times
Primary healthcare workplace

Active attendance at Seminars and workshops 16%

Independent Learning
Work based projects 52%
Directed reading and interactive activities 19%
Preparation for the teaching sessions at seminars and workshops 13%

Summative assignment, a written assignment (3500 words) which will require the student to critically analyse a variety of materials, (English law, organisational policies, government guidelines and professional codes of conduct) and reflect how this affects the patient/client experience in practice. Students will focus on one possible topic (i.e. consent, confidentiality, child protection) considering the possible dilemmas raised by the course, that is of especial relevance to their professional practice. ( Learning outcomes 1,2,3,4)

Pass
Proficient, fluently, presented arguments that demonstrate understanding of theoretical issues in the application of knowledge.
Work includes critical analysis that demonstrates breadth and depth of literature and knowledge in the subject area, and originality in presentation.
The use of evidence demonstrates an understanding of the advancement of the boundaries of knowledge and is used as a basis for problem solving.
Referencing is complete and accurate.

Merit
A piece of work which meets all the requirements of a pass grade and in addition:
Presents arguments which have been underpinned by a thorough exploration of data and conceptual - based evidence which may go beyond the boundaries of the discipline. Discussion communicates ideas and arguments logically, concisely, clearly and effectively.

Distinction
An outstanding piece of work which meets all of the requirements of a merit grade and in addition:
Demonstrates creativity and innovation.
There is substantial evidence of critique, challenge and original thought.
The arguments presented are compelling and authoritative and demonstrate synthesis to support new ideas