Let’s Get Southend Talking About Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Staff from South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (SEPT) want to raise awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during a special awareness week on Sexual Health.

In 2015, there were more than 435,000 STI diagnoses in England, and rates across the UK remain high compared to other countries in Western Europe.

This year’s Sexual Health awareness week takes place between Monday 12 and Sunday 18 September 2016, with the focus on raising awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). SEPT will be running several public stands throughout the week in the Southend area.

Members of the public are encouraged to visit the stands for information and advice about STIs, where to get tested, encouraging condom use and busting some common myths.

Drop by for information and advice at one of the following locations:

Monday 12 - Friday 16 September at the Forum

In the entrance area at the Southend Forum, Elmer Square, Southend, Essex, SS1 1NS and look out for information about Sexual Health week on the ‘Big Screen’.

Saturday 10 September at Garons Park

At Garons Park (Southend Leisure Centre), Eastern Ave, Southend, SS2 4FA, where staff from our Chlamydia Screening Office will be on hand offering information and advice.

Dave Needham, Chlamydia Outreach Worker for SEPT says “We know it can be difficult for people of any age to talk openly about sexual health, people may feel embarrassed about asking their GP for information about the use of condoms or getting tested.

“What’s great is that Sexual Heath awareness week makes information accessible to everyone, it encourages people to talk and has a positive impact on the sexual health of people, young and old, across Southend.

Carolyn Finlay, Chlamydia Screening Coordinator for SEPT said “Southend is an area which has one of the highest rates of people living with HIV, and is one of the top fifteen areas in England, excluding London.

“Any sexually active is person is at risk of an STI – often infections do not have symptoms. Testing is simple, confidential and widely available in Southend. We want to encourage people to visit us next week to find out about Sexual Health Services available to them in Southend”.