We provide health advice, information and support to patients diagnosed with an STI
About the Sexual Health Information and Protection (SHIP) team
We are nurse practitioners who offer advice to help prevent and minimise the risks of sexually transmitted infections. We are also able to signpost and/or refer patients to other support services for concerns such as drug and alcohol misuse, mental health concerns, domestic abuse and sexual violence.Your appointment
You are most likely to see a member of the SHIP team if you have a received a positive STI result, you have been in contact with someone with an STI, or you are under 18.
You may also be offered an appointment with us if you see a doctor or nurse who thinks you would benefit from our support or signposting in relation to other concerns including safety. In such cases, if the patient agrees, appointments could be on the same day, via a telephone appointment or booked as a follow up, face-to-face appointment.
Your follow-up appointment
These are shorter appointments to repeat tests after treatment to make sure the STI has cleared up. Longer appointments can be arranged if you would like to discuss an issue or concern or where additional support is needed or requested - we can refer or signpost you to different services.
Young People
A member of the SHIP team will generally see anyone under 18. This gives you the opportunity to discuss your concerns, the reason you have come to clinic, as well as ask questions or get some support.
Message us for support with ChatHealth
Did you know you can now send a message to ChatHealth for confidential help and advice?
If you are aged 13-19-years-old and have ANY questions about sexual health or contraception, you can message us.
Just send a message to 07312 263168
How does it work?
- when you send a message, you’ll get confirmation that your message has been received
- a trained healthcare professional will reply to your message during office hours within 24 working hours at most. If you need urgent help, you should visit an NHS walk-in centre or call NHS 111.
- in an emergency, dial 999 or go to A&E.
For more information go to www.chathealth.nhs.uk.
Geraldine Garcia
Ruth Dawson
Joanna Perkins
Pragya Khadka
Ellie Proud
