Sexual health: what's changed?

Healthwatch Sheffield revisited engagement in 2023 when they assessed the experience of young people who were living in hostels accessing sexual health services. They surveyed residents and staff in supported accommodation for homeless young people. They wanted to understand their level of knowledge about sexual health topics, and whether they are able to access the sexual health services and support they need.  They spoke to 41 people.

There were knowledge gaps among residents, particularly around signs and symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and who might be at risk. 

Work has been done to tackle the major barrier of travel to sexual health services, with more support delivered on-site. The biggest remaining barriers to accessing support include embarrassment and fear of judgement. 

Staff highlighted the need for further sexual health training to improve the support they provide to residents, and easier access to resources like condoms and pregnancy tests. 

 While there has been good progress supporting residents of the hostels to access support around sexual health, there are additional actions which could take this further, including more on-site services and educational outreach.