Southwark has the third highest rate of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in London, according to 2015 figures released by Public Health England (PHE).
With a rate of 2515.4 STI diagnoses per 100,000 people, the borough contributes to London having the highest rate of new STI diagnoses in England, 81 per cent higher than any other region.
Dr Yvonne Doyle, regional director for PHE London, said: “Worsening sexual health is one of the biggest public health concerns facing London and it is very worrying to see another year where STIs have increased in the capital.
“Rates of infection among young people are still increasing. We need to continue to engage with them and drive home the messages about safe sex, including using condoms, regularly being tested and avoiding overlapping sexual relationships, all of which will reduce the risk of STIs.”
In recognition of the figures, along with Lewisham and Lambeth councils, Southwark Council recently helped fund a partnership between four charities to provide sexual health services.
The Rise Partnership consists of GMFA, The Race Equality Foundation, NAZ and Antidote and will help provide HIV prevention and sexual health services to minority groups.
From April 2016, services including rapid HIV testing, peer support, condom distribution and chem-sex harm reduction will be available.
For more information about the Rise Partnership, visit www.naz.org.uk/rise-partnership/