New Sexual Health Strategy for Northumberland
10 Oct 2024 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
A new strategy was today (10 October 2024) presented to the Northumberland Health and Wellbeing Board which sets out the ambitions for a life course approach to good sexual health for the residents of the county.
Local Authorities have the responsibility to deliver open access sexual health services, providing contraceptives, STI testing and treatment, and sexual health advice.
Developed in partnership with local organisations, stakeholders, services and residents, the new strategy reflects the collaborative efforts and achievements already made within the healthcare system and sets out priorities over the next five years, focusing on teenage pregnancy and young people, education across the life course, reducing STI’s and HIV prevention, and contraception and reproductive health.
Cllr Veronica Jones, cabinet member for Public Health at Northumberland County Council said: “The Sexual health services we provide play an important role in the health of our communities. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships.
“The new strategy sets out Northumberland’s approach to improving the sexual health and wellbeing of our population. It has been shaped by partners across the local system and demonstrates our plans to improve the sexual health and wellbeing of all residents across the county. We want our residents to feel empowered, supported and encouraged to look after their own sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing.”
By normalising sexual health as part of overall wellbeing, the Sexual Health Services offer across Northumberland, from clinical provision to training and awareness raising, will ensure that everyone feels empowered to look after their own sexual health and wellbeing.
The strategy has a strong focus on reducing inequalities and disparities and sets out a vision where: 'all residents of Northumberland have access to and awareness of high-quality sexual health information, advice and support to enable knowledge and ability to make informed choices. The life course approach to sexual health will promote physical and emotional support and wellbeing, reduce inequalities and promote good sexual health for all.’