A couple behind a new sex shop set to open in Liverpool city centre say they want to change people's attitudes to talking and learning about sex.
Scandals, which already has adult stores in Bootle and Birkenhead, has now been granted a licence to open up a new shop in the basement of the Bling Bling building in Hanover Street in central Liverpool.
The family-run business is fronted by young couple Catherine Kershaw and Ben Hughes. This week they spoke about their passion for their family business and how they want to move sex shops and adult stores from the fringes of society and into the mainstream.
READ MORE: Couple delighted as new sex shop in Liverpool city centre approved
At the licensing meeting this week, Catherine spoke passionately about her family business, which was started by her parents - and how it has helped her to develop a healthy attitude to sex and relationships. She said this is something she aims to continue in her stores.
Mum-of-two Catherine, 33 told the meeting: "As a child growing up with my parents owning the business, I became comfortable talking to my parents about things, we have always been open and honest as a family. When I was 18 I first went into the shop and of course I was embarrassed at the time but I gradually became comfortable with it.
"With Scandals, once people cross the threshold into our stores, everyone acts maturely and like adults in a well controlled and comfortable environment.
"We have served people from ages 18 to 80, of all races, religions and sexualities, people feel respected when they come in - it isn't seedy. People can discuss intimate issues with us and ask for advice and help, we have helped lots of people. It's not the stereotype of seedy old men."
Catherine said the stores can help people who are struggling with their sex life. She said: "Just the other day a man came into one of our shops, his wife had died six months ago and he wasn't ready to be intimate with someone else yet. He bought something from us that made him feel better."
Catherine and Ben said that opening a shop up in the centre of Liverpool is the next natural step for their business. Catherine added: "We don't want to be out on the fringes, we won't last there, so a city centre location is the natural progression for us."
They have previously spoken passionately about changing attitudes to sex and adult shops. In a statement the young couple said: "Having been relegated to the fringes of society due to dated perceptions of what adult shopping is, we are very excited to open in Liverpool- a city well known for its incredible array of big brands and smaller independents.
"Liverpool is a city that we are proud to call home. Known for its inclusivity, LGBTQ+ acceptance and rich cosmopolitan, often revolutionary culture, we believe it's in the interest of many adults to have a safe space where they can explore their sexuality in a healthy, educated, and responsible way.
"At the same time, we are members of your community first and a business second therefore it is very important to operate so as not to offend anyone with more sensitive proclivities. If you happen to know about our existing stores, we have always operated discreetly and will continue to do so. This is why we will have buzzer-only access and will only be accessible to those over 18."
They added: "And for those who are perhaps nervous, we'd love the opportunity to put your mind at ease. When we discuss our work with those who haven't been into an adult shop, the line we always get is "I bet you get loads of weirdos in" our answer is "No, we are privileged to serve warm-hearted and open people every day, we are an age-appropriate environment and you'll find more offensive things on your phone".
"In a world where things are increasingly more difficult and mental health is at its lowest, it is our goal to bring joy to adults' lives. We have served the people of Merseyside for over 20 years and have helped tens of thousands of people from all walks of life, including those who suffer from health issues, disabilities or those who simply need someone to confide in. At long last, we are grateful that after many years of challenging the stigma attached, sexual health is finally being recognised for its critical role in a person's well-being. It will be the highest honour to serve the people of Liverpool city and we look forward to meeting you."
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