New one-stop shop for sexual health support

A shake-up to sexual health services in Hertfordshire now means those wanting to access support only have to dial one direct number.

Andrea Cuff, clinical manager of the new Hertfordshire Sexual Health Service, said: “The service includes the full breadth of genitourinary medicine (GUM) and contraceptive services as well as online information.

“There is also a dedicated outreach team that works with community groups, voluntary organisations and other healthcare providers to allow young people, and those at high risk of poor sexual health, greater access to services.”

The new direct booking and information line is 0300 008 5522, with the Marlowes Clinic at the Marlowes Health Centre in Hemel Hempstead town being the closest centre which provides the service for those living in Dacorum, but there is the option to travel to  centres further away.

Teresa Heritage, Hertfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for Public Health, Localism and Libraries, said: “Sexual health is an important area of public health and we are working hard to improve the services on offer to our residents.

“The new sexual health service will make it much easier for our residents to get the information and services they need as quickly and easily as possible.”

Clinics are located at 18 sites across the county based on local need, and most will provide services to meet both sexual health and contraceptive requirements.

For more information on contraception and sexual health, clinic locations and opening times, visit the website at www. sexualhealthhertfordshire.clch.nhs.uk