More than 8,000 new patients have attended Bradford’s sexual health clinic since April 2010.

Despite coping with a record number of patients, the team at the Trinity Centre sexual health service on Trinity Road - part of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust - want even more people to come and get tested to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections including Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Genital Warts and Herpes.

Sexual health consultant, Sophie Brady, said: “We believe that in Bradford this year the message about the importance of regular check-ups is getting through to people.

“Despite record attendances, there have been fewer new cases of Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea in the period from April to October than in the same time period last year.

“This is good news as it indicates that people are recognising the importance of regular testing while, at the same time, rates of sexually-transmitted infections are falling across the city.”

The Trinity Centre staff are specially trained to identify the specific sexual health needs of young people and tailor advice to individual needs. 

Recently the team were awarded the ‘You’re Welcome’ status after an external independent panel judged them to be providing a gold standard service to Bradford’s youth.

Dr Brady added: “It is not just young people who are at risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection, the over 40’s are forming new sexual relationships, and are not always thinking about using condoms and getting tested.

“Anyone who is concerned or takes their sexual health seriously should consider coming along to get tested at the Trinity Centre – all appointments are in the strictest confidence.”
The team also work with healthcare colleagues in the community to encourage testing for HIV. 

Nationally there were more than 6000 new cases of HIV infection in 2009
and over 300 people with the virus access care in Bradford, with the majority in the 25-to-54 age group. It’s also estimated that a third of the HIV positive population are unaware of their infection.

“Men who have sex with men and Black African heterosexuals remain the groups with the highest HIV rates within the UK but anyone could be at risk. Early diagnosis saves lives and we really encourage people to come forward for testing” added Dr Brady.

The sexual health service is open to all ages. Appointments can be made directly by the patient or with a referral from a GP.

Appointments are offered within 48-hours and walk-in sessions are available every morning from 8.30am to noon, Monday to Friday. Appointments are also available from early morning  to evening.

For more information on the city’s sexual health and contraceptive services call 01274 200024.