HIV and sexual health charity Terrence Higgins Trust (THT) is launching a series of weekly ‘Ask The Sexperts’ sessions in Shrewsbury to provide local people with information and advice on all aspects of sexual health. The sessions will launch at Shropshire Buddies and Body Positive on Tuesday 2 February, and will run every Tuesday from 10.00am – 4.00pm.

The space will provide a safe environment for anyone aged over-16 who has questions about HIV, sexual health, or sexuality. Visitors can book in advance for a free, confidential appointment with one of THT’s trained staff members, who will offer non-judgmental advice and - where necessary - can refer the visitor on to a testing centre or counselling service. More specifically, people living with HIV can be given information on the range of services available to them locally, including counselling and peer support. Free condoms will also be available.

Lotte Hakeman, Centre Manager for THT in Telford & Shropshire, said: “It can sometimes seem like we’re bombarded with information about sex, but there are still many people out there with unanswered questions. Our staff are all experts in their field, and no subject is taboo. So whether you’re after information on contraception, advice on coming out as gay, or just some free condoms, we hope these new sessions will encourage local people to start thinking seriously about their sexual health.”

Jillian Redman, Manager of Shropshire Buddies & Body Positive, said: “This is a great opportunity to work alongside THT and pool our resources, providing THT with a base in Shrewsbury town, whilst improving and broadening the services available at Shropshire Buddies & Body Positive.”

The weekly ‘Ask The Sexperts’ sessions take place at Shropshire Buddies and Body Positive, Roy Fletcher Centre, 12-17 Cross Hill, Shrewsbury SY1 1JE. Each week, there are sessions on Tuesdays from 10.00am - 4.00pm. Visitors are welcome to drop-in, but as sessions are limited, it’s advised to book an appointment in advance.

For further information on the ‘Ask The Sexperts’ sessions, or to book an appointment, please contact THT in Telford & Shropshire on (01952) 221 410, or visit the THT website at www.tht.org.uk.

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Notes to editors

1. Terrence Higgins Trust is the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity with centres across England, Scotland and Wales. We're here to provide information and advice about HIV and sexual health and offer a range of services including sexual health checks, counselling and support groups.  We campaign for a world where people with HIV live healthy lives, free from prejudice and discrimination and we promote good sexual health as a right and reality for all. Terrence Higgins Trust relies on donations to deliver a wide range of services. To make a donation, visit www.tht.org.uk