Sexual Health Week 2026 - Why trusted sexual health information matters
Monday 14 September to Sunday 20 September 2026 marks Sexual Health Week, an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigma and encourage open conversations about sexual health and wellbeing.
At Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT), we know that finding reliable health information can sometimes feel overwhelming. During Sexual Health Week, we're highlighting the importance of accessing trusted, accurate and non-judgemental sexual health advice and reminding local people that support is available whenever they need it.
Sexual health is an important part of our overall health and wellbeing. Whether you're looking for advice, information, testing, contraception or practical support, NHFT Sexual Health Services are here to help.
Working in partnership with North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council, we provide a range of services designed to support people across Northamptonshire to make informed choices and access the care they need.
Getting information from a trusted source
The internet can be a useful source of health information, but not everything online is accurate. Sexual Health Week is a chance to remind people that trusted NHS services can provide reliable information, confidential support and expert advice tailored to individual needs.
If you have questions about your sexual health, are worried about symptoms, need advice about contraception, or want to access testing, NHFT Sexual Health Services can support you without judgement.
Looking after your sexual health is a normal part of looking after yourself and seeking help or advice should never feel difficult or embarrassing.
How can NHFT support my sexual health?
NHFT Sexual Health Services offer a range of support, information and services for people across Northamptonshire.
STI testing
Regular testing plays an important role in maintaining good sexual health. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) do not always cause symptoms, which means people may not realise they need support.
NHFT provides access to STI testing, helping people to understand their sexual health status and access treatment quickly if required.
Testing is confidential, straightforward and an important part of looking after your wellbeing.
C-Card scheme
The C-Card scheme provides free condoms and sexual health information for eligible young people.
The scheme is designed to support safer sex, increase access to protection and help young people make informed decisions about their sexual health.
As part of Sexual Health Week, we're encouraging young people to find out more about the scheme and how they can access support.
Free condoms for under 25s
Condoms remain one of the most effective ways to help prevent many sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies.
NHFT offers a free condom service for people under the age of 25, making it easier for young people to access protection and look after their sexual health.
The service is confidential and designed to be straightforward and accessible.
HIV testing
HIV testing is a quick and important way to understand your health and access appropriate treatment and support if needed.
Advances in treatment mean that people living with HIV can live long and healthy lives, and early diagnosis remains extremely important.
NHFT encourages anyone who may benefit from testing to access trusted advice and support.
Dams
Dams are a barrier method that can help reduce the risk of some sexually transmitted infections during oral sex.
As part of our commitment to providing a range of sexual health options and information, NHFT offers access to dams and advice on how they can be used as part of safer sex practices.
Increasing awareness of available protection options helps people make informed choices about their sexual health.
An important aim of Sexual Health Week is helping to reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about sexual health.
Accessing information, advice or testing should be seen as a normal part of looking after your wellbeing. By increasing awareness and encouraging people to seek support when they need it, we can help improve sexual health outcomes across our communities.
Lisa Knight-Smith, Service Manager for NHFT Sexual Health Services, said:
"We know that many people turn to social media or online searches for information, but not everything they read is accurate. Our message this Sexual Health Week is simple: if you're looking for sexual health advice, support or testing, NHFT is a trusted place to start.
"Our services are confidential, professional and non-judgemental, and we're here to support everyone across Northamptonshire. Whether you have a question, need reassurance, are looking for contraception, want to access testing or simply need information you can trust, we would encourage you to get in touch and find out how we can help.
"By talking more openly about sexual health and making it easier for people to access support, we can help reduce stigma and improve health outcomes for our communities."
Get trusted sexual health support
Throughout Sexual Health Week, we will be sharing information, advice and resources to help people learn more about sexual health and the support available.
To find out more about NHFT Sexual Health Services and the range of support available, visit www.nhft.nhs.uk/sexual-health or contact the team on 03000 270 110.
No matter your age, background or circumstances, if you need sexual health information, testing or support, NHFT is a trusted place to start.