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Health bosses have said they’ll be increasing access to tests after a rise in the rates of gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows Bolton’s gonorrhoea rate doubled from 40 per 100,000 in 2021 to 80 per 100,000 in 2022. Nationwide, rates increased by 50 per cent, from 97 per 100,000 to 146.
Other infections also saw an increase, with Bolton’s syphilis rates increasing 50 per cent over the same period, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates in general increasing 43 per cent.
Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, which is commissioned by Bolton Council to run the STI testing service, has said it will be increasing access to tests.
It comes as the Local Government Association, which represents local councils, called on the government to increase funding for local sexual health services.
Tyrone Roberts, chief nursing officer at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We test thousands of people every year for a wide range of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) to make sure they receive the high-quality care and treatment they need, and this year we’ll be reaching out to communities right across Bolton to increase access to tests.
“If you’re having sex with new or casual partners it’s really important you use condoms and get tested regularly, and as early as possible, to look after your sexual heath and help us to prevent the spread of STIs, even if you aren’t showing any symptoms.
“You can book free and confidential testing through our Shine Sexual Health clinics by calling 01204 390771, or if you are under 25 with a Bolton postcode you can order chlamydia and gonorrhoea self-testing kits that are delivered discreetly through the post.
“Please visit our website and search ‘sexual and reproductive health for more details.”
A Bolton Council spokesperson said: “Bolton’s rise in STIs reflects the main trend across the UK, and our sexual health services continue to provide a quality service for thousands of people every year.
“Our main adult sexual health contract delivered by Bolton NHS Foundation Trust provides accessible, high quality community based sexual health services, including delivering testing and treatment and educational support.
“Additional provision has been commissioned via GPs, pharmacies and third sector organisations to address a range of specific sexual health needs including contraception (planned and emergency), and outreach, support and guidance regarding HIV and targeted STI screening.”
The Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said sexual health services were still recovering from the pandemic.
A spokesperson said: “This year we have allocated more than £3.5 billion to local authorities in England to fund public health services, including sexual health services, and this funding will increase in each of the next three years.
“We continue to work closely with the UK Health Security Agency, local authorities and NHS England to manage pressures on sexual reproductive health services and improve access to routine services.”
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