HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) and Doncaster Primary Care Trust have just opened a new chlamydia testing service aimed at under 25’s in Doncaster.  The service runs every Monday from 12-2pm at Pathways on Nether Hall Road.  Over the next few months THT plans to open similar services in Barnsley, Rotherham and Bassetlaw.

The chlamydia test involves taking a urine sample which is then sent off to the lab, results are available within a week.  For those who test positive, antibiotics to treat the infection are provided. The clinic also offers information and advice on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraception to young people, as well as giving out free condoms.

Approximately one in ten young people have chlamydia and many don’t have any symptoms.  If left untreated chlamydia can lead to serious health problems, including infertility.

Caroline Mason, Service Development Manager at Terrence Higgins Trust said “We wanted to create a clinic that was convenient and accessible for young people so we based it in the centre of town.  Having a service aimed specifically at under 25’s should make coming along much less daunting.  If you’re under 25 and worried you might have put yourself at risk, please come along and get a test, you’ll find the clinic is friendly and you’ll be able to get peace of mind.”

Christina Harrison, Doncaster PCT’s Clinical Manager responsible for Contraception and Sexual Health, said: “Terence Higgins Trust complements the drop-in and personal appointments services we provide at East Laith Gate House in the town centre, which includes pregnancy and contraception advice, screening for some sexually transmitted diseases and counselling.”

The new Doncaster Clinic is based at Pathways, 7 Nether Hall Road, Doncaster, DN1 2PH. To find out more please call THT Direct on 0845 12 21 200.

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Notes to editors

• Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, providing a wide range of services across England, Wales and Scotland.  The charity also campaigns and lobbies for greater political and public understanding of the personal, social and medical impact of HIV and sexual health.

• Doncaster Primary Care Trust is responsible for allocating NHS money to purchase health services for the population of Doncaster; for improving the general health of people living in Doncaster; for steering the work of general practice; for directly providing primary care services, such as health visiting, district nursing, podiatry and sexual health; and for promoting healthy lifestyle initiatives.