JFPRHC is looking for a dynamic reader to take on the role of social media editor
The Journal already has a strong readership and offers online features such as a blog, podcasts, Facebook and Twitter. This new post has been created to assist the editorial team in improving the journal’s interactivity and web presence via these and other social media, by promoting the journal’s content as well as helping its core readership to stay up to date with news and developments in the field.
You should be educated to degree level with knowledge of the journal’s subject area. Some experience of science communication and/or web content management systems such as Twitter, Facebook andWordPress would be preferred, but the main criteria for the successful applicant will be enthusiasm for the subject area, creativity, and an interest in using new technologies to disseminate scientific research.
The role would be ideally suited to a junior researcher or practising clinician. The full advert, and how to apply, is available at: http://jfprhc.bmj.com/site/misc/JFPRHC%20Social%20Media%20Editor%20advert%20Feb%202013.pdf
Sexual Health Commissioning
the Local Government Association and Public Health England have produced a document of FAQs. They address a number of transitional issues relating to the transfer of responsibility for commissioning sexual health services to local government. In addition to these FAQs the Department of Health will shortly publish guidance on local government’s mandatory responsibilities for sexual health.
Reminder to register as stakeholder for NICE Patient group directions Good Practice Guidance
Management of PGDs will change from the 1st April when commissioning of services changes. All those involved in development or use of PGDs can contribute at the consultation stage by registering as a stakeholder now. Individuals can contribute as service providers.
To register your organisation as a stakeholder send registration details (name of contact, name of organisation, email address) to pgd@nice.org.uk using the subject heading Patient group directions GPG stakeholder registration 2012/13
National Infertility Awareness Campaign Welcomes updated NICE Guideline on Treating Infertility
The National Infertility Awareness Campaign (NIAC) has welcomed the new clinical guideline on the assessment and treatment of couples with fertility problems, published by NICE yesterday but fears remain over its implementation.
People experiencing fertility problems will be able to seek NHS help sooner and get the medical treatment they might require earlier. The updated guideline also includes other specific groups of people for the first time; these include same sex couples, those who carry an infectious disease, such as Hepatitis B or HIV and those who are unable to have intercourse (for example, if they have a physical disability). It also includes updated recommendations for people who are preparing for cancer treatment who may wish to preserve their fertility. However, as NICE clinical guidelines are not mandatory, fears still remain over local implementation as patients may continue to face a ‘postcode lottery’ approach to funding. This coincides with the release of the
Latest UK fertility treatment data and figures: 2010-2011
Published this week by the HFEA – ‘Fertility Treatment in 2011: Trends and Figures’
Education about abortion in the UK is failing young people
A report published by Brook and Education For Choice (EFC) finds that education about abortion in the UK is failing young people. Some schools are addressing the topic as part of comprehensive sex and relationships education (SRE), but there is evidence of widespread bad practice including medical misinformation being provided by teachers and visitors to schools. The report pulls together findings from surveys with schools and young people, and an audit of teaching materials used. Young people describe negative experiences of the education they received, and report that some schools are using inappropriate teaching materials including graphic images and distressing, inaccurate video material.