Residents will be able to do their own STI tests at home and receive their results by text, in a revolutionary new scheme launched in the borough.
The online service means that people will be able to test themselves and receive results without having to leave the privacy of their own home.
Testing kits can be ordered from the SH:24 website, and results will be sent by text within a week – a “discreet and completely confidential” feature that organisers hope will increase the number of people being tested in the area.
Programme director Dr Gillian Holdsworth said: “We know many people who want or need a test don’t get tested for an number of reasons – inconvenience, embarrassment about going to a clinic, or not realising their at risk.
“SH:24 aims to increase efficiency and improve the experience for users and radically improve sexual health outcomes.”
The testing kit varies depending on gender, with men offered tools to provide blood and urine samples, while women must supply a blood sample and a vaginal swab.
The scheme is funded by Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity, and will provide free testing for the four most common STIs: Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV.
Anyone testing positive for Chlamydia, gonorrhoea or syphilis will receive their results by text and will be invited in to a clinic for a discussion about treatment. HIV-positive people will receive a text saying that a clinician will call them to discuss the results.
For more information or to order a kit, visit: sh24.org.uk