King’s College Hospital is launching south London’s first sexual health service for trans people. The walk-in clinic will offer health initiatives including STI testing and treatment; contraception; counselling; acupuncture; cervical screening; hormone testing, hormone injection and advice; sexual assault support; hate crime support; housing advice; and the PrEP Impact Trial.
Holistic approach
Dr Michael Brady, Consultant in Sexual Health and HIV at King’s College Hospital and National Advisor for LGBT Health at NHS England said: “On Trans Visibility Day, 31 March, I am very proud to announce this service. We recognise that trans and non-binary people are disproportionally affected by health inequalities. We will adopt a holistic approach, not just sexual health but combining wellbeing services to help improve mental health, self-esteem and reducing isolation. A holistic approach also plays a key part in reducing vulnerability to HIV.”
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Ed Davie, Lambeth Cabinet Member for Health, said: “This is something we’re very proud to deliver alongside King’s and the Health Innovation Network. I’m certain it will make a positive difference to trans people in Lambeth and across South London, providing a whole range of health support in a safe, comfortable environment. This will increase learning and awareness for health professionals in issues that trans people face, and also for trans men and women around sexual health and wellbeing, helping us reduce inequality and ensure that everyone can access support that is right for them.
Working with communities
“From our black mental health commission to leading the Do It London HIV campaign, Lambeth Council has a proud record of working with our minority communities to improve health and I’m very pleased this new trans clinic builds on this offer.”
Improving provision, enhancing dignity
Michelle Ross, cliniQ Co-founder and Director of Holistic Wellbeing Services added, “I am excited and immensely proud to deliver and develop sexual health and holistic wellbeing services in South London for trans, non-binary and gender diverse people. cliniQ’s focus is on improving the provision of health and wellbeing services and enhancing dignity in accessing services.”
Funding and delivery
- The service is funded by the London Boroughs of Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham and the Health Innovation Network (South London). It will be jointly delivered by King’s and cliniQ.
- In addition to clinical and support services, King’s will develop and deliver training materials for healthcare professionals to raise awareness, knowledge and skills in relation to trans health.
- The clinic opens every Tuesday from 4pm to 7pm at the Caldecot Centre, King’s College Hospital from the end of April 2019
