New sexual health services launches in lincolnshire

This Lincolnshire Integrated Sexual Health service (LISH) will provide a flexible, confidential service to anyone who need it for sexually transmitted infection/HIV advice, screening and treatment and/or contraceptive health needs.

From April 1, Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS) became the main provider of sexual health services in the county, on behalf of Lincolnshire County Council, through the council’s public health grant. The same services will continue to be delivered with improved access, extended opening hours and additional clinics.

LISH will also provide an outreach service, delivered through a new ‘clinic in a boot’ mobile initiative. Sexual health staff will be able to deliver services based on a need, in a confidential room in an area which doesn’t have a static clinic. For instance, if a GP requests chlamydia screening because of a recent outbreak this can be delivered through this initiative.

Paula Moody, strategic lead, Adult Public Health Services for LCHS, said: “We’re thrilled to be providing an extended sexual health service for the people of Lincolnshire.

“We will still be offering the services we previously provided such as FLY-Bye clinics, contraception, emergency contraception and sexual health screening with the addition of the C-Card scheme.”

Clinics are available at Boston, Skegness, Sleaford, Spalding, Lincoln, Louth, Gainsborough, Grantham and Stamford. Future plans will also see this outreach service delivered from a ‘health bus’ which will be available at different locations throughout the year.

Paula added: “We are also working with the Terrence Higgins Trust to provide chlamydia screening. Chlamydia screening kits can be ordered through our dedicated sexual health website.”

A dedicated sexual health website is now available on any platform with the internet, making it easy for people to access anytime anywhere. The website features information on clinics, contraception, STIs, HIV, safer sex and the C-Card scheme. Visit the website at: www.lincolnshirehealthyfamilies.nhs.uk/sexualhealth

To book an appointment at any clinic, call the central booking line number on 01522 308800 which is open 8am-6.30pm Monday to Thursday and 8am-5pm on Fridays.

You can also follow @LCHSSexHealth on Twitter and LCHS Sexual Health on Facebook.