Terrence Higgins Trust (THT), the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity, is launching a new and confidential service exclusively for male sex workers in Brighton and Hove called PRO (TECT).
THE TAILOR-MADE service will provide sex workers with a safe space to talk about anything to do with their sexual health.
PRO (TECT) is for male sex workers living and working in Brighton and Hove and the service includes fast access to the Claude Nicol Centre for sexual health screenings and a free rapid HIV test. Testing involves a finger prick blood test, providing a result in 20 minutes. Trained staff provide one-to-one support before and after the test, and anyone who tests positive will be referred on to a specialist clinic.
Trained staff will provide practical advice and information on how to stay safe and improve their sexual health. The team will also provide free condoms in a range of sizes, lube, and other safer sex materials.
THT hopes that running a service exclusively for male sex workers who cannot access services due to their personal circumstances will encourage them to seek advice and emotional support.
Ross Boseley, Health Promotion Coordinator at Terrence Higgins Trust in Brighton, said: “We understand that sex work can be emotionally, mentally and physically demanding. This free, non-judgemental service aims to improve the emotional and physical wellbeing of sex workers by providing practical advice and information. We would like to encourage anyone who feels they can benefit from our service to get in touch.”
THT will also provide the rapid HIV testing service at its centre at 61 Ship Street for sex workers who cannot gain fast access to the service at the Claude Nicol Centre.
Testing is available Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about PRO(TECT) or to book an appointment, telephone Tom Boyt on 01273 764 207 or EMAIL:
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