Spark are running a monthly drop-in sexual health clinic alongside Brook, taking place on the first Thursday of every month.
A nurse from Brook will be coming into Spark’s St John’s Court building on Ainsworth Street from 10am to 2pm. The service is open to everyone, offering free sexual health screening, pregnancy testing, contraception and smear tests.
Improving the accessibility of discreet sexual health screening and contraception services is vital within the area, as individuals with substance use disorders are at increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through blood-borne exposure and sexual activity.
Rebecca Young, Registered Manager at Blackburn Brook, said: “Brook is committed to providing inclusive, non-judgmental sexual health services that are tailored to people’s individual access needs.
“We’re proud to partner with Spark to ensure that all Blackburn with Darwen residents can benefit from our free, confidential advice and support.”
Why STI testing is important
STI rates are on the rise within the Blackburn with Darwen borough. Data shows cases of gonorrhea and syphilis have spiked over recent years, whilst rates of those being tested are far below the national average.
Testing for STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HIV and other conditions will be available at the drop-in clinic. Service users can also order free STI testing kits online if they aren’t comfortable with getting tested on-site.
Claire Illingworth, Area Operations Manager at Delphi, said: “It’s great to see the drop-in clinic within our service. It allows clients accessibility to multiple services under one roof. Brook and Spark have been progressing our joint working and this is a great outcome”.
Contraception available will include: free condoms, contraceptive implants and triage for the coil (fitting will need to be carried out at a Brook centre).
The next Brook drop-in sessions are on Thursday 4th April and Thursday 2nd May. No appointments are necessary.
Making smear testing more accessible
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer amongst women, yet many still overlook the importance of regular smear testing.
The NHS has issued a call for anyone eligible for cervical screening to come forward for a potentially life-saving appointment. Nearly a third of eligible people (around 4.6 million) didn’t take up their latest test.
Through the Brook drop-in clinic, service users can get their smear tests quickly and easily, without having to book an appointment with their doctor.
You can find out more about the monthly drop-in service by contacting Spark on 01254 495014 or emailing BWD@calico.org.uk. For more information on Brook, please visit: brook.org.uk/regions/brook-blackburn/