The Family Planning Association (FPA) was a UK registered charity working to enable people to make informed choices about sex and to enjoy sexual health.

[6] Its stated purpose was "that married people may space or limit their families and thus mitigate the evils of ill health and poverty".

In January 2008, Julie Bentley became the Chief Executive, taking over from Anne Weyman OBE, who had previously led the organisation for 11 years.

[11] Dr Audrey Simpson OBE became Chief Executive of FPA in October 2012, taking over from Julie Bentley who had led the organisation for five years.

It played a role in obtaining the provision of free contraception on the NHS across the UK and campaigned around abortion to preserve consumer rights and choices.

[18] In 2010, the FPA celebrated 80 years[2] and rebranded with a new logo[19] to reach more people with sexual health and sex and relationships information.

During the same year it also founded an Achievers' Club to recognise people who have made significant contributions to improving the sexual health of the UK.

[20] Due to the emotive nature of some topics addressed by FPA – for example, abortion – the charity was criticised by a number of religious, political and pro-life groups.

These groups generally protested on the grounds that all foetuses have a right to life; that sexual health education leads to promiscuity; that contraception is against the teachings of the Bible; and for other similar reasons.