Sexual Health Week

Locala is a not-for-profit community healthcare provider. As part of this, they deliver sexual health services across Greater Manchester, including Tameside. This service is commissioned and funded by Tameside Council.

They're based at Ashton Primary Care Centre on the second floor (The Orange Rooms). They offer free, confidential sexual health services and support to people living in Tameside. This includes access to testing, treatment, contraception and advice, helping individuals make informed choices about their sexual health.

Accessing care is straightforward. You can contact them directly on 0161 507 9460 to book an appointment, or text a healthcare professional on 07312 263 032 for advice and support on a range of sexual health issues. If you are under 18, they offer a dedicated ‘queue and wait’ clinic every Tuesday between 15:30 and 18:30. There’s no need to book, just turn up. They also run community clinics in the local area – please check our website for locations and times.

Locala are encouraging everyone to take some time to consider their sexual wellbeing. With many STIs going unnoticed, we can’t rely on symptoms alone. The only way to protect yourself and your partners is through regular STI testing.

If you’re using contraception, it’s important to remember that finding the right method can take time. What works well for one person may not suit another, and it’s perfectly normal to try more than one option before finding what’s best for your body. If you’re experiencing side effects or feel unsure about your current method, talk to us. They can discuss different choices and help you find a solution that feels right.

You may feel nervous or anxious about attending a sexual health clinic. The team are there to support you. Please visit the ‘What to expect’ page on their website to learn more. The service is inclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly and non-judgemental.

This year’s theme for Sexual Health Week 2025 is ‘Chronically Online’. For many of us, digital technology plays a major role in how we navigate relationships and manage our wellbeing. From contraception to STI and HIV prevention, misinformation online can cause confusion and even harm.

Locala want to encourage everyone to stay safe online, think critically about the content they consume and seek trusted, evidence-based advice from healthcare professionals.

For more information: Visit: locala.org.uk/services/sexual-health

Follow us on Instagram: @localasexualhealth

Or on Facebook: @LocalaSexualHealth