Preventing sexually transmitted infections
A high rate of sexually transmitted infection means large numbers of people are impacted; but it can also suggest people are highly aware of, and can get to, the services they need treatment from. Therefore, we want to see a reduction in STI diagnoses while maintaining high rates of testing and treatment.
Improving access to contraception
We’re continuing to make sure people can get contraception easily through a combination of online and face-to-face services. We’re also improving how we promote these services and educate people on contraception, so we can increase awareness on what is available.
Increasing the use of Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)
Long-acting reversible contraception such as implants, or intra-uterine devices (also called ‘the coil’) are highly effective forms of contraception. We aim to increase the number of people opting to use these via their GP or sexual health services, whilst also ensuring people receive advice and support to choose from the full range of contraception options.
We will provide more opportunities for residents to learn about Long-Acting Reversible Contraception through our communications and engagement activity.
Improving access and understanding of contraceptive services and developing other sexual and reproductive health and HIV work
We’re working together to provide sexual and reproductive health education to more vulnerable people, such as those with a mental health diagnosis, learning disability or young people leaving care.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a prescription drug which can reduce your chances of being diagnosed with HIV. We want to make sure that all people who would benefit from this medication are able to do so; so we have a number of innovative trials taking place to improve uptake of PrEP.
We’re also exploring more opportunities to offer screening for HIV so people can receive diagnosis and treatment as early as possible.
In April 2019, commissioners agreed with King’s College Hospital to set up a dedicated sexual and reproductive healthcare service to trans and non-binary people at the Camberwell Clinic. CliniQ takes a holistic approach to support trans and non-binary clients and work with or refer into other relevant services (e.g. GPs, mental health services, drug and alcohol services and housing support).
Chemsex is the practice of taking drugs for the specific purpose of facilitating sexual activity mostly between gay and bisexual and other men who have sex with men. Our commissioned service works with residents to enable them to access the right support for their needs.
Sexual health services for people in Lambeth
To find out more about the sexual health services, abortions, contraception, and HIV prevention and support available to Lambeth residents, please visit Lambeth Council’s council’s sexual health pages.