The LGBT Helpline
THE LGBT helpline provides an information, support and referral service for lesbians, gay men, bisexual and Trans (transgender, transsexual, transvestite) people.
Sexual Health and Support
Sexual Health
One of the biggest health problems that can occur due to poor sexual health is Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies.
NHS Choices
You can find lots of good information on NHS Choices about keeping good sexual health. You can find information on –
- sex facts
- advice and support
- genital health
- sexually transmitted infections
Go to advice and information about sexual health
Each of these sections has subheadings for you to find more information on the topic. By accessing this information, you will be better prepared to keeping good sexual health.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STI’s)
Sexually transmitted infections can lead to infertility, poor health and in some cases death. You must be aware of how to maintain good sexual health and the support you can receive to assist you with this.
More about sexually transmitted infections
STI testing
If you have had sexual contact with someone without using a condom, you may be at risk of an STI. Not all STIs have symptoms so if you think you may have been at risk it is important to get tested. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can be caught through vaginal, anal or oral sex or skin-to-skin contact. STIs are common and can affect you whether you're straight, gay or bisexual. You don't need to have sex with lots of people to be at risk of catching an STI — just one brief encounter may be enough.
Find your nearest sexual health clinic
You can find out more about getting tested and visiting an STI clinic from the NHS Choices website.
Contraception
There are many different types of contraception available. Condoms are the only form of contraception that can protect you from both unplanned pregnancy and STI’s.
There are advantages and disadvantages to each type so it's important to choose one that best suits your relationship and lifestyle. Your GP will be able to advise you on the different types of contraception.
Access the NHS Choices – Contraception guide here
Emergency contraception
If you have had unprotected sex or your contraception method has failed, you can obtain emergency contraception (also known as the 'morning after pill') from your pharmacist.
Further local support
Locala Sexual Health
Locala Sexual Health offers the following services to Bradford residents of all ages, free of charge:
- A full range of types of contraception
- Testing and treatment for STIs
- Pregnancy testing and referrals to appropriate care
- HIV medications for people who have are at high risk of being exposed (PrEP) and people who have possibly been exposed in the last 72 hours (PEP)
Contact Locala:
- In person at Howard House, Bank Street, Bradfprd. BD1 1EE (link to map) and from some outreach clinics.
- Visit the website here
- Call 030 3330 9500 - Monday to Thursday, 8am to 5pm, Friday 8am to 4pm and Saturday 9.30am to 11.30am (excluding bank holidays).
- 24-hour voicemail service - 030 3330 9500
- Chat online or book an appointment for other reasons through the Locala website
Yorkshire Mesmac
Yorkshire Mesmac offers free services to Bradford residents of all ages who are:
- at high risk of STIs or unwanted pregnancy
- people living with HIV
- young LGBTQ+ people
- people from African communities
Their services include:
- Rapid testing for HIV and syphilis
- Free condoms and lube kits
- Social and support groups
- One to one advice
Contact Mesmac:
Visit the Mesmac website for more information on how to access their services.
Call 01274 395815
National services
British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS)
British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) provides advice and support on contraception, abortion and sexual health
Alternatively, you can contact them via –
- email info@bpas.org (Opens in a new window)
- telephone: 03457 304 030 (open 24 hours a day, seven days a week)
Terrance Higgins Trust
The Terrance Higgins Trust provides information, support and advice on HIV and sexual health.
Go to the Terrance Higgins Trust
Alternatively, you can telephone the helpline number on 0808 802 1221 (10am to 8pm Monday to Friday)
Family Planning Association
The Family Planning Association provide help and advice so you can make positive choices about your own sexual health and well-being.
Sex and relationships for people with Learning Disabilities
Mencap has information and advice to support people with learning disabilities on relationships and sex