To watch a short NHS video about STIS:
Our dedicated sexual health and STI prevention, testing and treatment services are delivered through our clinical service Brook and also our digital sexual health offer SH24:
Brook
https://www.sexualhealthblackburn.co.uk/
- Brook provides free and confidential sexual health services to any resident Blackburn with Darwen.
- The service is confidential, non-judgmental and is for people of all ages, genders, and orientations.
- Everyone is welcome at Brook; you don’t need to see a GP first – you can attend one of the walk-in clinics or make an appointment at a time that suits you.
- The friendly staff at Brook will support you with whatever you need, even if you’re not quite sure what that is. They will listen, answer any questions, and give you lots of information and support about sexual health.
- To make an appointment please call 01254 268 700 (phone lines are open from 10:00-16:00 Monday-Friday)
From Brook you can access:
- Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) testing and treatment
- Contraception (including long-acting methods and emergency contraception)
- Condoms
- Pregnancy testing and help with pregnancy choices
- HIV testing and support
- Information and advice around all aspects of sexual health and wellbeing
- Cervical screening
- Specialist psychosexual therapy : For more information go to: https://www.sexualhealthblackburn.co.uk/more/psychosexual-therapy/
- Access to PrEP and PEP (medication that can be taken before or after sex to prevent HIV being passed on
Address:
Brook Blackburn, 54-56 Darwen Street, Blackburn, BB2 2BL
Phone
01254 268 700 (phone lines are open from 10:00-16:00 Monday-Friday)
Opening times
Monday: 9:00 – 18:00 (under 18s only 15:30 – 18:00)
Tuesday: 9:00 – 17:00
Wednesday: 9:00 – 17:00
Thursday: 9:00 – 17:00
Friday: 9:00 – 17:00 (under 18s only 13:00 – 16:00)
Saturday: 10:00 – 12:00 & 13:30 – 15:00 (under 18s only 13:30 – 15:00)
Sunday: CLOSED
SH24 – Digital sexual health by post
https://www.sexualhealthblackburn.co.uk/sti-home-testing/
Did you know can get a free test posted to you?
- Residents aged 16+ in Blackburn with Darwen can access free testing and treatment for STIs online from SH:24.
- SH:24 provide free a confidential consultation and will recommend the most appropriate kit for you.
- Tests are sent via first class post in a plain envelope, The kits include clear instructions to help you take your own samples at home and a freepost envelope to return your samples. Results will be sent to you within 3 days via text message.
- SH24 can also provide photo diagnosis of certain STIs all delivered from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
- All services are discrete and confidential.
What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
STIs are infections that are spread through sexual contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can affect both anyone. Some common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and genital herpes.
How can I protect myself from STIs?
The best way to protect yourself from STIs is to practice safe sex. This includes using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity and getting tested regularly for STIs.
For more information about symptoms got to
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Worried You have an STI? (brook.org.uk)
- https://sh24.org.uk/
To check if you have an STI, order a free confidential test here https://sh24.org.uk/orders/sti-test-kit/home-address
Watch a video to understand how SH24: sexual health by post works
Watch a video here to understand how to carry a home blood test with SH24
Will you tell my GP if go to Brook for contraception or an STI test?
- When you visit Brook or a similar sexual health clinic, the information about your visit is kept confidential, and it does not automatically go onto your record.
- Brook will not share your details with your GP or any other healthcare provider without your permission.
- The only times they would need to share is if you were at risk of harm to yourself or others or if you are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), In this instance the clinic may notify your GP to ensure coordinated care.
- Brook will always tell you if they have to share information about you.
- Brook is a confidential service which means they will not tell anyone that you have been to their services.
Will you tell my parents if I go to Brook for contraception or an STI test?
- Brook is a confidential service which means they will not tell anyone that you have been to their clinic. If you are under 16, Brook would only tell a parent or carer if they thought you were in danger or at risk of harm and they would tell you if they needed to do this.
- If you are under 18 please call 01254 268 700 or you can book a Monday afternoon appointment here Book an appointment – Brook Blackburn under 18s face-to-face clinic – MyDrDoctor (this service is only available to under 18s)
I’m trans. Will Brook understand my needs and worries about accessing a sexual health service?
Good sexual health is vital for everyone. Trans, non-binary and gender diverse people often find they are left of information relating to health, well-being and sexual health.
Brook are committed to providing inclusive and comprehensive sexual health services for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. Brook recognises that everyone’s journey is different, and their goal is to ensure that you receive respectful, confidential, and affirming care. The nurses are trained to understand and address the unique needs of trans individuals and will be happy to help and support you.
