Derbyshire Integrated Sexual Health Services launches new STI testing and prevention campaign
This new endeavour is carefully crafted to increase STI testing rates amongst these targeted groups, who are traditionally reticent to get tested, with an emphasis on early detection and preventive care that promises to significantly enhance health outcomes throughout the city and county.
At the heart of the campaign is a commitment to extend the reach of sexual health services to traditionally under-represented groups. With a sharp focus on males and those identifying as male within the 16-24 and 40+ age brackets, as well as ethnically diverse communities - including Asian or Asian British, mixed white Asian, mixed black African, and Chinese males - Derbyshire Integrated Sexual Health Services is set to challenge the disparities in sexual health service usage.
The campaign's message is straightforward: STI testing and treatment are essential acts of self-care that safeguard individual and partner health. With an understanding of the privacy concerns around sexual health, ISHS ensures confidential and free STI testing through the Your Sexual Health Matters website, along with an anonymous partner notification service. This allows service users to notify previous partners they may have come into contact with an STI, without revealing their identity.
"By fostering open conversations and utilising a variety of creative communication platforms, we aim to normalise and encourage the discussion and uptake of STI testing," said Rebecca Spencer, General Manager of Integrated Sexual Health Services representing Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust. "Our message is one of inclusivity and support, and our goal is to make testing a regular part of health care for everyone."
As part of this multi-channel strategy, ISHS is set to launch an assortment of engaging digital and print content. Younger demographics will be met where they are most active, with eye-catching digital ads on platforms such as YouTube, SnapChat, Instagram, and Tinder. Simultaneously, efforts to reach males over 40 will unfold on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and popular dating sites including Match.com and Hinge. The campaign is also mindful of language barriers within ethnically diverse communities and will provide translated print resources to facilitate clear and meaningful outreach.
Beyond the digital realm, the campaign extends to physical spaces like gyms and barbershops with informative posters, aiming to boost STI testing rates among those less represented in current statistics.
ISHS calls upon every community member to lend their voice and support to the STI Testing & Prevention Campaign. It's with a unified front that ISHS envisions making a significant difference in public health and individual well-being across Derbyshire.
Together, we can safeguard our community's health through prevention, awareness, and action.